A murder investigation has been launched after a mum’s body was found in a bush by a dog walker.

Maria Jane Rawlings, 45, was found dead in Little Heath in Romford, Essex at around 2pm on Tuesday.

A post-mortem gave a preliminary cause for her death as neck compression and possible blunt force head trauma.

The Chelmsford mum, who had two daughters, is thought to have left Kings Georges Hospital in Goodmayes, Ilford on the evening of May 3.

Police say she may have been approached by someone while walking as she headed along Barley Lane in the direction of the A12.

Officers suspect she was murdered and have appealed to the public for help with a probe.

Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier said: ‘My team and I are working around the clock, following a number of enquiries in our work to establish what happened to Maria.

‘Her family are understandably distraught and we are doing all we can to help them as they begin to come to terms with their loss.

‘Now I am asking for the public to help us. I want to hear from anyone who knew Maria and knows about where she had been and who she had been associating with.

‘Have you seen her in the area in the company of another person? Had you recently heard or seen a disturbance or struggle in the area but did not think it significant at the time?

‘You might have dash cam or doorbell footage that could have captured her – please think carefully and, if you can help, contact police.’

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