The identity of a woman from Stockport who was found in the River Mersey last year has been revealed.

After an extensive investigation, police have confirmed that the woman was 38-year-old Laura Stanley.

Laura was sadly discovered in the river adjacent to Chorlton Water Park on 21 March last year.

With Laura's identity confirmed, a further investigation is underway to understand her last movements, and the events that led to her death and discovery in the river.

The process of identifying Laura involved an 'exhaustive' investigation by Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) major incident team. Officers checked national and international databases, collaborated with specialist forensic officers, and generated a facial reconstruction.

Ultimately, following several media appeals, a relative of Laura contacted officers, who subsequently were able to confirm a DNA match through a familial link.

Laura's body was sadly discovered in the River Mersey near Chorlton Water Park on 21 March 2024 (Image - Google Maps)

Paying tribute to her, Laura's family said: "Laura was a kind and gentle person with a great sense of fun and adventure.

"She was generous, thoughtful, caring and always keen to volunteer within the community.

"Laura was a proud and loving mum and she will be greatly missed by her girls and all of her friends and family who loved her dearly."

Family members have asked for their privacy as they continue to grieve their loss.

Detective Inspector Louise Edwards, from GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "For the last twelve months, the investigation team have worked meticulously on this case, demonstrating commitment and dedication to giving Laura her identity back and reuniting her with her family and loved ones.

"I would like to pass my condolences on to all of those who knew Laura, especially her family, who we are continuing to support at this awfully difficult time.

"We will now continue to investigate Laura's last movements and how she ultimately came to be discovered in the River Mersey just over a year ago. These are answers her family deserve and we will be keeping them updated as we carry out this work.

"I would like to thank Face Lab at Liverpool John Moores University, who created the facial reconstruction which helped a relative identify her.

"I would also like to thank members of the public who have shared our appeals and provided us with valuable information throughout the investigation. The information has been of great benefit and I am very grateful for this."

Anyone who knew Laura and thinks they may be able to assist is asked to contact officers with information. It is currently believed she was last seen around January 2024.

If you have any information, can contact police by calling 101, or by using their Live Chat Service at gmp.police.uk, quoting log number 1191 of 21 March 2024. Alternatively, you can contact the Major Incident Team Syndicate 3 directly on 0161 856 9479.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Information can also be provided online using the dedicated Major Incident Public Portal here.