Man, 50, released in murder inquiry

A MAN arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of a mother-of-four found collapsed on her birthday four years ago has been released under investigation.

Linda Richardson was found unconscious at a property in Bury in June 2014. She was 49 on that day and had been due to have a birthday meal with her children.

She was found collapsed in the early hours and taken to hospital where she later died.

An original investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mrs Richardson’s death was closed as it was deemed there were no suspicious circumstances.

But on Monday this week a 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and held for questioning. He has now been released under investigation.

An inquest into Mrs Richardson’s death, held in October 2014, recorded a verdict of misadventure. But detectives have revealed that new information about the case was received in November last year, and that the investigation has been reopened.

Although she was found unconscious at a home on Spencer Street in Bury, at the time of her death Linda was living in Bredbury, Stockport.

She had been taking part in a rehab programme as part of a battle with drink, and was mentoring other alcoholics.

Det Insp John Stainton, of GMP’s Bury Borough, said: “Whenever new credible information comes to light, whether the case is closed or not, we have a duty to investigate.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.