DETECTIVES investigating the murder of a Hampshire pensioner have received more than 140 calls since appealing to the public for help.

The body of Georgina Edmonds, 77, was found by her son, Henry, and a family friend at her cottage in Kiln Lane, Brambridge, Eastleigh, on January 11.

Officers stopped motorists, dog walkers, joggers and visitors to the area of Kiln Lane to appeal for information.

Four men were arrested last Monday.

Three were released without charge the following day and a 37-year-old man was released on bail.

Det Chief Insp Paul Barton said: "I am encouraged by the community's response to our media appeals and urge members of the public to continue contacting us with information.

"We need to speak to anyone who was in the area of Kiln Lane, including Brambridge Garden Centre between 11am and 5.45pm on Friday, January 11.

"We are mindful that our investigation has caused disruption to the local community but we hope that residents are able to understand the lengths we must go to, to identify the person or people responsible."

Anyone with any information regarding this incident should contact the Operation Columbian investigation team at Hulse Road on 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.