THE results of forensic tests on the body of a mother-of-four, who last year was attacked and left for dead on a bridle path, could take up to seven weeks.

A home office pathologist, Dr Allen Anscombe, yesterday carried out a post-mortem examination at Southampton General Hospital on Mrs Vivien Watson who died last week aged 44.

Mrs Watson, from Emsworth, had been the victim of a rape and violent attack on July 24 last year. She was found naked and unconscious near a secluded bridle path in Hambledon.

Police will not say yet if they will bring any fresh charges against Damian Taylor and Kerry Young, the two people convicted earlier this year for their part in the brutal attack on Mrs Watson.

Officers are awaiting the pathologist's report and the results of further forensic tests.

A police spokesman said: "Chief Superintendent John James will be liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service and Mrs Watson's family on the way forward with this investigation."

Mrs Watson had serious brain damage and died on November 21 at Holy Cross Hospital in Haslemere. In July this year Taylor, 30 of Trinity Street, Fareham, was convicted for attempted murder and rape and Young, 25 of Cornwell Close, Rowner, Gosport, was found guilty of assault causing grievous bodily harm. Taylor got 25 years jail and Young was jailed for five years. An inquest into Mrs Watson's death is due to be opened next week.