THE body of a woman discovered in a field in North Yorkshire is believed to be that of a local 51-year-old.

Detectives are investigating after the woman's body was found on Saturday, June 1 in a field next to the A63 at Monk Fryston, between York and Selby.

A member of the public discovered the body and alerted police at about 3.20pm. The A63 was closed while police investigated the scene.

North Yorkshire Police say they say they are treating the death as unexplained and it is too early to confirm whether or not there are any suspicious circumstances.

Formal identification of the body has not yet taken place, but police said on Sunday evening it is believed the deceased is a 51-year-old local woman.

Superintendent Amanda Oliver said: "I would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding while the police activity was ongoing over the weekend."

Anyone with any information should call North Yorkshire Police on 101.