A BODY found in woodland off Hermitage Lane, Barming, near Maidstone, has been identified as that of a heavily pregnant woman.

Joanne Selguk, 35, of Fernhill Road, Maidstone, was discovered by a dog walker in an area behind Maidstone Hospital.

Maidstone and Malling Police has launched an appeal for witnesses who may have seen her walking on Tonbridge Road or Hermitage Lane on Wednesday, November 12, in the hours leading to her death.

They believe she was walking in the area between 9.30am and noon, heading towards Maidstone Hospital. She was wearing a blue denim jacket, a blue three-quarter length denim dress and black boots. She may have been carrying a flask.

Police are not treating the death as suspicious. An inquest has been opened and adjourned.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Graham Hooks on 01622 608182 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

• A service of thanksgiving for Joanne Selguk, formerly known as Joanne Summers, will be held in the chapel at Maidstone Cemetery, Sutton Road, Maidstone, at noon on Wednesday.