A HAMPSHIRE town has been left in shock after the body of a young woman was discovered in woodland close to homes and a busy road.

Residents of Woodley Road, Romsey awoke yesterday to find forensic officers combing a wooded area next to a bus stop.

Several police officers were at the scene, near to the newly-built Abbotswood Estate, following the discovery of the 19-year-old at 6.13am on Thursday.

Police cordoned off the area opposite Cavendish Close for four hours.

After police left the scene a spokeswoman confirmed the death was being treated as non-suspicious.

She added: “Officers attended the scene and investigations into the exact circumstances of her death are ongoing.

“Next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.”

The identity of the woman has not been released.

Police could also not confirm where exactly the young woman was found, after suggestions on social media that she was discovered on a bench.

Several passers-by offered their condolences to the young woman’s family following the announcement of the tragic news.

Samantha Childs, of Cupernham, spoke of her shock.

She said: “I cannot stop thinking about what her family must be feeling,” she said. “My son is only young, but I couldn’t imagine losing him in such a way. I think, as a town, we need to be strong for her friends and family, even though we don’t know who she is.”

A fellow resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I have a daughter of similar age and I cannot even imagine what this girl’s parents are feeling. My thoughts are with them.”

Other residents took to social media to offer their thoughts and prayers. One said: “Heartbreaking! Poor, poor girl. Love and strength to her family and friends.”