AN INDEPENDENT investigation has been launched into how police handled an incident in which a grandmother-of-three was stabbed to death in her home.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission revealed yesterday that it will investigate how Durham Constabulary responded to the incident in which 57-year-old factory worker Margaret Iley was stabbed in Horden, County Durham, on February 9.

The divorced mother-of-two suffered several stab wounds at her home in Smillie Road and died shortly afterwards.

Joseph Iley, her 54-year-old former husband, who she divorced 14 years ago, has been charged with murder.

It is understood that Durham Constabulary referred the case to the commission three days after Mrs Iley's death when members of her family raised questions over the nature of the police response.

Both the commission and police say they cannot elaborate on the nature of those concerns due to the impending legal proceedings. However, three investigators, based at the commission's office in Wakefield have visited the region and carried out an initial assessment of the case.

Yesterday, Commissioner Gary Garland announced that, following an initial report, a full independent investigation using the commission's investigators will be conducted, which will focus on what actions the police took after they became aware of an incident at the property.

Mr Garland said: "This was a horrific incident and my sympathies go out to Mrs Iley's family and friends.

"The commission will be examining the police response to determine whether anything could, or should have been done differently."

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "We referred the case to the commission and they will examine our response to the tragic circumstances surrounding Mrs Iley's death.

"We believe a full and transparent investigation by the commission will provide reassurance to both Mrs Iley's family and the local community. This force places great importance on investigating all domestic violence, an issue that remains very high on our agenda."

The findings of the commission are not likely to be made public until after the conclusion of court proceedings arising out of Mrs Iley's death.

Mr Iley, who is unemployed and lives in Emmerson Court, Horden, appeared before Newcastle Crown Court, on Friday, charged with murder.

He was remanded in custody until April 23.