A MURDER investigation has been launched after a woman died in the early hours of the morning.

Officers were called to Park Avenue in Thatcham at around 2am following reports that a woman had died.

Police attended alongside paramedics, but a 25-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim has been named locally as Janine Bowater, who was a young mum-of-two. Flowers have been left at the scene.  John Wright, aged 32, of the Hollands, Thatcham was charged today (13/12) with one count of murder and one count of grievous bodily harm with intent.

A post-mortem examination has revealed the cause of death to be compression of the neck.

Wright has been remanded in custody to appear at Reading Magistrates' Court tomorrow (14/12).

Ms Bowater's next of kin have been informed.

Senior investigating officer, detective superintendent Ian Hunter, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: "We are in the early stages of our investigation into this incident.

"A scenewatch is in place, and officers will be in the area today while our enquiries continue.

"I understand that this incident will cause concern in the community, but I would like to reassure people that we are carrying out a thorough investigation and that we have made an arrest in connection with it.

"Members of the public should feel free to approach officers if they have any concerns.

"If anyone has any information relating to this incident which they think could help our investigation, please call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101."