A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a grandmother was stabbed to death at her home in Radcliffe.

The 62-year-old, named locally as Carol Bland, was found dead at her home in Bury Road.

Police were called to the address at about 9.30am today after a someone reported concern for the residents.

They found Mrs Bland dead at the scene with stab wounds.

A man, also 62, was taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary with neck injuries. He was later arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police have moved to reassure residents adding that this was an “isolated incident” and that there is “no wider threat to the local community”.

Neighbours have spoken of their disbelief at the incident.

A friend of Mrs Bland, who asked not to be named, said: “I’m really shocked. Carol always liked things just right and kept the home nice. She also loved fitness and had recently started going dancing.

“The last time I saw her was out shopping early last week, although we didn’t speak because I was in a rush.

“Everything seemed fine to me. It’s really sad.”

One resident, who asked not to be named, said she heard shouting shortly after 9am this morning.

She said: “I saw someone shouting across the road. I don’t know what was said and then all of a sudden there were sirens everywhere. I can’t believe this has happened.”

Neighbour Alan Fletcher, aged 77, said: “I dropped my wife off at Bury Market this morning and came back to sirens everywhere. I walked round and the police tape was already up. Her little dog was also running loose.”

It is believed Mrs Bland had three children and two grandchildren.

A post mortem examination will take place today and enquiries to establish the cause of death and circumstances leading to it are ongoing.

Chief Supt Mary Doyle said: “I want to reassure those that live nearby that this is an isolated incident and there is no wider threat to the local community.

“If you saw or heard anything or have any information about this incident please call us.”