Stab woman's family 'overwhelmed'

Sharon Bell was a mother-of-three

The family of hairdresser Sharon Bell who was stabbed to death in Newcastle city centre say they have been overwhelmed by messages of support.

The mother of three from Elswick was found with stab wounds in the doorway of the New York hair salon on 23 May.

Her parents thanked hospital staff, police and members of the public who helped their daughter.

Brian Whitfield, 44, of no fixed abode is due to appear in court on 8 June charged with her murder.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "The family of Sharon Bell wish to express their thanks and gratitude to the members of the public who assisted Sharon on Tuesday, May 23, at Nelson Street, Newcastle.

"To the paramedics and staff at Newcastle General Hospital who provided medical assistance to Sharon; to the public of Newcastle who have come forward to help Northumbria Police; to the media for respecting our privacy during this difficult time; to the investigation team at Northumbria Police for their efforts and support.

"We have been overwhelmed by the well-wishes received from friends and the people of Newcastle, as shown by the flowers and cards sent to us and left at Sharon's home and place of work."