Cold killed police inquiry woman

Mrs Johnson had been recently widowed

Hypothermia caused the death of an elderly woman who was found just yards from her Tyneside home nine days after a missing persons inquiry was launched.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is looking into how the hunt for Beatrice Johnson, from Newcastle, was handled.

Specialist Northumbria Police search teams were deployed after the 83-year-old went missing on 29 January.

Her body was found on Wednesday, just 50 yards from her home.

It was recognised that Mrs Johnson was a vulnerable person and an extensive missing person inquiry was instigated Assistant Chief Constable Greg Vant, Northumbria Police

A member of the public discovered Mrs Johnson in Belsay Gardens, Fawdon, close to her home in nearby St Clements Court.

Police helicopter, search and rescue and marine sections had been deployed without success.

Assistant Chief Constable Greg Vant said: "It was recognised that Mrs Johnson was a vulnerable person and an extensive missing person inquiry was instigated.

"In addition, an investigation and review is being carried out into how this missing person inquiry was conducted.

"The matter is being referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission."

Post-mortem test

Mrs Johnson, who had Alzheimer's Disease, had started taking medication following the death of her husband four months ago, after 60 years of marriage.

The cause of her death was revealed in a post-mortem examination on Thursday morning.

Her daughter, Pauline Handy, issued a statement thanking the police and all who had helped in the search.

She said: "My family is so grateful to everyone for making what has been a dreadful time a little easier and showing that when you need help so many people are there for you.

"My mum is now at peace and safe once again in the arms of my late father."