Police are investigating after the sudden death of a 26-year-old woman in Letchworth yesterday evening.

Officers are conducting door-to-door enquiries at properties near the address in Ivel Court on the Jackmans estate where the woman died.

The flat concerned, which is believed to be a North Hertfordshire Homes property, is above the shops at the centre of the estate.

One neighbour said this morning: “There was such a mess and so much blood, she’s had it bad. She was a very nice woman.”

Another elderly neighbour added: “Let’s hope she’s in a better place, bless her.”

Police say that the investigation is still at a very early stage and officers are yet to confirm the circumstances of the death, but expect to issue more information later today.

Anyone with information should call police on 101.

A spokesman for East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that they were called to the scene at 8.14pm last night.

A rapid response vehicle and an ambulance officer attended to treat a woman who was at first reported to be in her 30s, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

A fire alarm sounding in the building this morning brought a 999 crew to the scene, but after investigating they left the building just after 10am.