Blow to skull killed Derby charity worker in Goa

The family of Denyse Sweeney, who believe she was murdered in Goa three years ago, today say they are one step closer to proving what happened to her.

Denyse (34), a charity worker from Derby, was reported to have collapsed in a bar in Anjuna in April 2010. Police in India dismissed her death as down to a drugs overdose.

But her family, refusing to believe their version of events, have campaigned ever since for the truth.

Now a Home Office pathologist, on behalf of Derbyshire Police, has found that her death was caused by blow to the back of her skull.

Derbyshire police, who have no jurisdiction in India, say they will now be sending the report to the Indian authorities.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Stokes, told Central News, "Clearly we have to work with the Indian authorities and there is still a long way to go with this investigation but my job as a Derbyshire officer is to keep speaking to Denyse's family and do my very best by them."

Hundreds of well wishers and friends who have posted messages of support on a Facebook page in Denyse's name, called Justice for Denyse, has also provided comfort and support for the family.