Police investigating the unexplained death of a woman in Kildwick are appealing for the public’s help in tracing her movements.

The woman, believed to be in her 70s, was found in the Leeds-Liverpool Canal at 7.15am today by a member of the public. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

She was wearing a three-quarter-length brown, quilted jacket, a black shirt and a woollen hat, and may have been carrying a black handbag and an orange canvas bag.

Police believe the woman may have been in the Starkey Lane area at around 7.15am yesterday, and could have spent some time in a pub in the area. It is believed she was seen near to the canal later the same day at 11.30pm.

It is believed she could be from the Manchester area and police are currently working with Greater Manchester Police in order to identify her.

Det Supt Dai Malyn, who is heading the investigation, said: “We are currently working to establish the circumstances as to how this lady came to be in the canal.

“If anyone saw a woman matching her description, I would ask them to contact the police straight away as they may have vital information that could help my inquiries.”

He added: “I am keen to hear from anyone who can help me understand how she came to be in Kildwick, in particular anyone who may have given her a lift such as taxi drivers in Skipton or Keighley.”

The canal was cordoned off today to allow police to carry out investigations.

Anyone able to help should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1 and pass the information to the Force Control Room, quoting reference number 12140026881.