A murder investigation is under way after a woman, who was found with serious head injuries, died in hospital.

Police were called after the 36-year-old was discovered by paramedics in Ilford, east London, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

She was taken to hospital but died from her injuries.

The victim, who has not yet been named, had been walking along the Cranbrook Road in the direction of Gants Hill Station when she was subjected to the “horrific assault”, the Metropolitan Police said.

Scotland Yard has been carrying out “urgent inquiries” to identify the woman and has said her family has been informed.

Forensic officers are at the scene, which has been cordoned off. No arrests have yet been made.

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“Local people will see a significant police presence in the area today and in the coming days,” said Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell.

“I understand that for women, particularly locally, this is an incredibly distressing incident and I urge you to be alert but not alarmed,” he added.

Officers have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or was in the area between 2am and 3am to get in touch.

“It is vital that my officers speak with every possible witness and everyone with information that may assist the investigation,” said Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers.

“We also want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the wider Ilford area overnight.”

Anyone with information or footage, or any witnesses, is asked to call the major incident room on 0208 345 3715.

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