Body found in York river is missing woman

North Yorkshire Police said the death of Miss Bishop, who was reported missing earlier this month after being virtually housebound for 13 years, was not being treated as suspicious.

Police divers found the body of the 34-year-old on April 9 in the River Ouse, near Skeldergate Bridge, not far from her home on Bishopgate Street.

A post-mortem examination has now been completed and the body formally identified as Miss Bishop.

Miss Bishop, who lived with her 66-year-old mother Valerie Bishop, was reported missing by a family friend on April 3 but it was thought she may have been missing from home since March 22.

Police expressed fears for the safety of the 34-year-old, who had threatened self-harm in the past and was the sole carer for her seriously-ill mother, after traces of blood were discovered inside the family home.

Detective Chief Inspector Helen Taylor, who led the missing person investigation, said: "The death of Mandy Bishop is very sad indeed. Our thoughts are with her mum Valerie at this very difficult time.

"On behalf of the investigation team, I would like to pass on our thanks to local residents in York who provided a great deal of help and support to the police throughout the search for Mandy."