Police have launched an investigation after a woman died in custody in Nottingham.

The 34-year-old woman was found unresponsive in a cell at around 22:30 GMT on October 31, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said.

She had been arrested the previous day and was remanded in custody to appear in court after being charged with shoplifting.

The IOPC said “rescue attempts” were made but she was pronounced dead at 11.12pm, prompting a mandatory report from Nottinghamshire Police.

The watchdog said it was investigating contact the force had with the woman before her death.

Derrick Campbell, IOPC regional director, said: “Our thoughts go out to the woman’s family and loved ones and to all those affected by her death.

“As he was in police custody when he became ill, we are required to carry out an investigation into the circumstances, which will include the actions and decisions of the officers and staff involved.

“We will keep the woman’s family and Nottinghamshire Police informed of our progress.”