DETECTIVES were today investigating the "unexplained" death of a woman found in a garage in a village near York.

Police forced entry to a house in Upper Poppleton at 7pm yesterday after neighbours said they had not seen the owner for some time.

The detached property, in Main Street, opposite the village library and primary school, was today sealed off by police.

Forensic experts were expected to arrive at the property to carry out a detailed investigation and a post-mortem examination was due to take place later today. The body was found in a garage next to the house.

Police have not yet identified the body, but the householder is known to be widow Valerie Luckett, whose husband, Peter, died several years ago.

Mrs Luckett, who was in her 50s, was said to have kept a low profile since her husband passed away.

Dave Joplin, manager of the village football team, Poppleton United, who play at the nearby recreation ground on Main Street, said Mr and Mrs Luckett used to watch them play.

"Valerie was always a really good laugh," he said.

"Her and Peter always used to come and watch the team on a Saturday. I've not seen her around much since Peter died about five years ago."

Inspector Steve Burns said: "Police officers attended the address after receiving reports about concern for a neighbour who had not been for some time."

Updated: 10:58 Wednesday, February 18, 2004