Police have explained why a man who was arrested on suspicion of murdering a woman in Brantham has been released on bail. 

A 45-year-old man from Ipswich was arrested in connection with the death of Anita Rose after she was attacked while walking her dog in Brantham. 

He was taken to Martlesham police investigation centre for questioning alongside a 37-year-old woman, also from the Ipswich area, who was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods in connection with the incident on Saturday. 

However, the pair have been released on bail with conditions to return on October 25.

Detective Superintendent Mike Brown said: "We completely understand and empathise with the concern some members of the Brantham community have expressed about the fact a male who has been arrested on suspicion of murder was subsequently bailed.

“It is important to understand that at times it may be necessary to make arrests in serious and complex investigations based on the evidence available at that time to fully understand the role individuals may have played in any offences identified. As such, a person’s status in an investigation may change as the case develops which may result in options such as Bail being used.

“We remain in close liaison with our other relevant community groups and representatives and repeat what we have said previously that we are working extremely hard to find out who was responsible.

"Anyone with concerns can and should approach an officer in the area who will be happy to talk to you."

A member of the public found Ms Rose, 57, injured and unconscious on a track near Rectory Lane and called 999 at 6.30am while trying to assist her. 

Ms Rose was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge with significant brain and head injuries but died days after the attack. 

In a tribute, Ms Rose's family said: "Our mum was well known and loved in the community.

"She was brutally taken from us devastatingly too early, and we have been robbed of so much time with her."