Detectives investigating the death of woman who was found in the canal at Kildwick have confirmed they do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident.

Sandrea Pilkington, 70, who was from Ramsbottom but had connections with Kildwick, was found dead at 7.15am on Tuesday.

Detective Superintendent Dai Malyn, who is leading the investigation, said: “As a result of extensive inquiries carried out by both North Yorkshire Police and Greater Manchester Police, with excellent support from the public, there does not appear to be any other person involved in the death of Mrs Pilkington.

“Whether she took her own life or accidentally fell into the canal still remain lines of inquiries on behalf of the coroner.”

Det Supt Malyn added: “Leaflets have been dropped within the village of Kildwick to identify any other witnesses who may have spoken to or seen Mrs Pilkington between 7am on Monday and 7.15am on Tuesday when her body was discovered in the canal.”

Police say Mrs Pilkington travelled from Ramsbottom to Skipton by taxi, arriving at about 6.30am on Monday.

It is thought she then travelled to Kildwick and spent some time in the White Lion pub in Priest Bank Road. Officers are keen to know if she visited anywhere else.

The last sighting of her was believed to be at midnight on Monday, when a woman matching Mrs Pilkington’s description was seen near the canal.

Det Supt Malyn thanked those who had already come forward to provide information but said there were still gaps to fill.

He said: “I am aware that many years ago Mrs Pilkington had a connection to the village and may have been married at the church. Her maiden name was Longmore, so I am hoping this also prompts further information.”

Anyone who can help should contact the North Yorkshire Police control room on 101, quoting reference number 12140026881.