Police have named a man they urgently want to speak to over the murder of a 29-year-old woman who was repeatedly stabbed.

Detectives say Adam Brettle, 23, from Warrington, may have vital information to help them with their inquiries into the death of the victim from St Helens, Merseyside.

The public have been warned not to approach Brettle directly if they see him but to call 999 immediately.

Officers were called to an address in Swan Avenue, Derbyshire Hill, at 11.40am on Saturday to a report of an assault.

On entering the property they found the 29-year-old victim had suffered multiple stab wounds and she was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Detectives, who believe the offender was known to the victim, have now appealed for Brettle to come forward. 

Detective Chief Inspector John Williams, of Merseyside Police said: “Brettle is someone we are very keen to speak to as soon as possible, as our investigation into this tragic murder continues.

“I would advise the public not to approach Brettle directly if you see him, but to call police on 999 immediately so that we can take the necessary action.

“I also want to make it clear that having any current association with Brettle will bring police officers to your door, so I would encourage anyone with information to do the right thing and come forward as soon as possible. ”

Anyone with information on his whereabouts can contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. Alternatively call 101 quoting incident reference 18400045065 , or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.