Police have launched a murder investigation after a woman was attacked in a shop in Mitcham town centre this afternoon.

A Met Police spokesman said officers were called to the shop, believed to be Peacocks on Majestic Way, about 1.20pm.

They found an Asian woman in her 40s seriously injured in a back area of the clothing shop.

She is believed to have been slashed across the neck before being stabbed in the heart.

The spokesman said the air ambulance was called but the woman was later pronounced dead at the scene.

A murder investigation has been launched under Detective Chief Inspector Mick Duthie, who is appealing for witnesses and information.

Police say they believe they know the identity of the woman but are still trying to contact next of kin.

A post mortem examination and inquest are expected in coming days.

There have been no arrests so far.

Anyone with information is urged to phone the incident room on 020 8721 4205.