DETECTIVES hunting the killer of a retired teacher have arrested a man.

West Mercia Police detained a man - who is not local - on Thursday evening, February 2.

He has since been bailed while inquiries continue.

Betty Yates, aged 77, was found murdered at her cottage home off Dowles Road near Bewdley on Wednesday, January 4.

Police believe she died on Monday, January 2.

She had been battered with her own walking stick and then stabbed to death.

A friend raised the alarm after not hearing from Mrs Yates for some time.

A West Mercia Police spokesman said: "There has been an arrest in the Betty Yates murder case.

"A man was arrested earlier this week in connection with the investigation.

"The man, who does not live locally, was arrested at home on Thursday night after he was interviewed in relation to the inquiry.

"He was taken to a police station in north Worcestershire by detectives.

"The man has since been released on police bail while inquiries and a major police investigation continues."

Officers investigating Mrs Yates' murder want to speak to anyone who believes they may have information about her death.

Anyone with information is urged to call 0300 333 3000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.