Mother's snow death 'a mystery'

A floral tribute marks the spot where the woman's body was found

Police say they do not know why a Newcastle mother, who died after being found lying in the snow, ventured out in freezing conditions.

The 42-year-old mother-of-one was wearing an overcoat, trousers and trainers, when she was discovered near shops at Newbiggin Hall on Saturday.

She was treated at the scene for the effects of cold, but died later at Newcastle General Hospital.

Police said they were awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination.

Police said the woman, who has not yet been named, left her home at about 1900 GMT on Friday and was reported missing when she failed to return.

She told her partner only that she was "going for a walk".

The woman was found at about 1100 GMT on Saturday, but police are unsure as to how long she had been lying in the snow.

She had not suffered any visible injuries.

'Absolute tragedy'

A floral tribute marked the spot where the woman was found.

Supt Paul Orchard, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is an absolute tragedy for the woman's family.

"We really do not know what happened to the woman in the time she left her home and was found.

"We would appeal for anyone who may have seen her to get in touch with us as much for the family's sake as for anything else.

"We need to piece together what her movements were and what she was doing."

Mr Orchard stressed there were no suspicious circumstances.

Anyone who saw the woman out walking between Friday evening and 1100 GMT on Saturday is urged to contact the Northumbria force.