A man has been arrested after a woman died following a stabbing near a canal in Tameside.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested by detectives investigating the murder of a 51-year-old woman. 

It comes after reports came in at around midday on Friday (2 June) that a woman had been stabbed on Edge Lane in Droylsden, close to Ashton Canal. 

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the woman passed away at the scene.

A murder investigation was immediately launched by GMP’s Major Incident Team and enquiries have since secured the arrest of the man on Friday night on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody for questioning.

Police say there will be a visible increase of officers in the area and are keeping an open mind about the circumstances of the woman's death. 

Chief Superintendent Phil Davies, Tameside’s District Commander, said: “Our officers have been working around the clock to identify and arrest the person responsible.

"We have a man in custody however this is still the early stages of the investigation after a woman’s life was tragically taken and we are in the process of piecing together the full circumstances and are keeping an open mind.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the victim as well as with the community who have been deeply affected by this incident. I understand the nature of the incident will cause concern in our communities, not just in Tameside, but across Greater Manchester.

“As a result, there will be a visible increase of police officers in the area over the coming days and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak to them.

“We are determined to find answers and bring the person responsible to justice. I appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything to come forwards and if you have any information that could assist our investigation – no matter how small it may seem - please share it with the police.”

Anyone with information, CCTV or video footage regarding this incident or have witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area at around midday on Friday are asked to contact GMP by calling 101 or www.gmp.police.uk quoting log 1353 of 02/06/2023.

Information can be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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