A WOMAN was murdered in Huddersfield early today.

The 39-year-old victim was found with stab wounds close to the town centre, but was dead on arrival at hospital, despite the best efforts of paramedics and doctors.

She was found in Lower Fitzwilliam Street shortly before 1.30am and a large area surrounding it has been sealed off and guarded by police.

The death prompted a large-scale investigation and detectives confirmed this morning that the woman’s death was being treated as murder.

The inquiry is being carried out by West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide And Major Enquiry Team and an incident room has been set up.

Detectives said a 23-year-old man was arrested in the early hours and was being held in connection with the woman’s death.

Police sealed off a large part of Huddersfield throughout much of the night and morning and it had a major impact on homes and businesses.

The police cordon included Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Great Northern Street, the Great Northern Retail Park – including large stores such as Homebase, Currys and Next – and the Phoenix Retail Park in Leeds Road, which is home to the PC World store.

Uniformed police stood guard on several lanes and alleys off Lower Fitzwilliam Street and Leeds Road.

Forensic experts and police scene of crime officers could be seen checking car parks at both retail parks and at the Jewson builders’ merchants premises nearby on Leeds Road.

Rush-hour drivers faced problems due to the road closures. Police said early today the roads would remain shut for several hours.

Several police officers were seen at the rear of a block of terrace houses at the junction of Lower Fitzwilliam Street and Leeds Road.

A police spokeswoman said: “Police were called shortly after 1.30am today to Lower Fitzwilliam Street, where they found a 39-year-old woman who was seriously injured.

“She was taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, where she was pronounced dead.

“It is believed she had been stabbed.

“Police are appealing for anyone who may have been in the area just off Leeds Road at that time and saw anything suspicious to contact them.

“A short time later a 23-year-old man was arrested in connection with this incident.”

Anyone with information should phone detectives on 0845 6060606.