POLICE investigating the suspicious death of a woman were last night questioning two men.

Lawrence Martin, 57, was arrested along with a 43-yearold man after police were called to Rium Terrace, in Hartlepool, yesterday.

They discovered the body of a woman in the property, which had been converted into flats.

Detectives spent yesterday questioning Mr Martin, who is a well-known character in his home town because of his habit of dressing in his late mother’s clothes at football matches.

Forensic experts cordoned the property off and began searching the scene following the discovery at about 4.50am.

The Northern Echo understands the body was discovered at the bottom of stairs between the two flats.

Nearby residents spoke of their shock.

One said: “I never heard anything at the time, but I know a woman lived in the ground-floor flat with her boyfriend. I never knew of any problems – they kept them- ARRESTED: Lawrence Martin, pictured in 1991 selves to themselves.

“I think Cleveland Fire Brigade used the hydraulic lift to get someone out of the upstairs flat, but I do not know why.

“It is very sad to hear what has happened.”

Another resident said: “I did not hear anything, but when I got up I saw the police officers outside.

“There has been a lot of activity outside all day.”

The results of a postmortem examination, which was carried out yesterday, are expected to be revealed today.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01429-302178 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.