Woman's body found behind Sandbrook Park

Photo: Greater Manchester Police

Superintendent Nicky Porter at the scene

The body of a woman has been discovered behind Sandbrook Park this morning (Monday 17 July), close to the footpath next to Ashfield Valley Primary School, from New Barn Lane and Ashfield Road. 

Following a call at 4.30am this morning (Monday 17 July 2023), emergency services discovered the body of a woman believed to be in her 40s.

Members of the public should avoid the area and Ashfield Valley Primary School has had to close.

The investigation, now led by GMP’s Major Incident Team, is in the early stages and police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with additional information to come forward.

District Commander for Rochdale, Nicky Porter said: “This morning GMP and paramedics responded to an incident very close to Ashfield Valley Primary School. Unfortunately, a female was found at this location and I can confirm this morning she is deceased.

“We now have an ongoing investigation and have specialist resources down at the scene, and we are working really hard to establish what's occurred.

“I'm appealing to you, the community, and any witnesses who may have seen something that occurred in the early hours of this morning (Monday 17 July 2023).

“If you know anything about this incident, or if you have any dashcam footage or CCTV, please contact GMP, so you can support us with this investigation.

“As soon as we know any more, we will update you. I'd like to thank all the community who have supported us this morning and the school that have unfortunately had to close.

“We will get back to you as soon as we have an update. Thank you.”

"Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police or Crimestoppers, quoting incident 390 of 17/07/23."