Police have launched a murder inquiry after the discovery of a woman's body at her home in Eastbourne.

Officers found 58-year-old Susan Bailey's body at the house in Channel View Road just before noon yesterday.

A man in his 50s was arrested in connection with Mrs Bailey's death and was being held at a Sussex police station today for questioning.

Detectives say they are treating the death as suspicious. The murder inquiry is being led by Det Supt Chris Gillings of the Sussex force's major crime branch.

A police spokesman said: "Anyone who was in the area of Channel View Road between Friday and Sunday and feels they have information that might help the inquiry should call us."

The number is 0845 6070999.

Neighbours of Mrs Bailey, a married mother who moved into the house a year ago, told of their shock at the death.

Alfred Hopkins, also of Channel View Road, said: "Her father, who is in his 90s, moved out about a year ago and she moved in. I used to pop in to take the mail in."

A police guard remained at the house overnight and this morning while scenes of crime officers examined the area for clues.

The rear of the house was covered with a tarpaulin this morning and curtains were drawn inside.