A murder probe has been launched after a woman was found dead in south London.

Scotland Yard named the victim as Diane Dyer, 61, who was found with head injuries at a home in Beckenham on Thursday.

Detectives believe she knew her attacker but no arrests have been made.

Officers were called to the property in Oakwood Avenue by the London Ambulance Service shortly after 11pm following concerns raised for a female occupant, the Metropolitan Police said.

She was pronounced dead at the scene and a post-mortem is due to be carried out on Friday. Her next of kin have been informed.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cranwell said: “This is a tragic incident and we are supporting Diane’s family at this difficult time.

“I would like to reassure the community that this is thought to be an isolated incident and we believe Diane knew her attacker.

“My officers are working around the clock to apprehend the person responsible, however we also need the public’s help.

Appealing for information, he added: “Did you see or hear anything suspicious on the evening of Thursday, 18 July in the Oakwood Avenue area? If so, we need to hear from you.

“Please contact the incident room as soon as possible or call Crimestoppers anonymously.”