Police investigating the death of the 47-year-old man, have issued an urgent appeal for public help in tracking his movements during the hours leading up to his death.

Simon Marcus Hurley died in the North Staffordshire University Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent late on Wednesday night, several hours after being found with serious head injuries in a first floor flat at 20a The Oval, Market Drayton.

Mr Hurley, who also used the name Simon Hamilton, lived in Red Barn Road. He was named today by police after being formally identified.

His death is being treated as unexplained at this stage but police have arrested a 40-year-old woman on suspicion of murder. She remains in custody at Shrewsbury police station for questioning.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Watson, the senior investigating officer from West Mercia Police, said: “Officers were called to the address at around 7pm on Wednesday after Mr Hurley was found with serious injuries from which sadly, he died in hospital later that night.

“A detailed investigation is being conducted to establish exactly how he came by those injuries and an important part of our inquiry is establishing his whereabouts and movements prior to arriving at the address earlier in the day.

“In particular, I am appealing to anyone who either saw or had contact with him during Wednesday. I would also appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity of 20a The Oval between about 4.30pm and 7pm on Wednesday to contact the police.

“They should call Shrewsbury police station on 101 and ask for CID as a matter of urgency.”

DCI Watson said information had been received about a dark coloured 4×4 vehicle seen near 20a The Oval at around 4.45pm on Wednesday. “I would ask the driver to come forward as they may be able to help.

“We have carried out house to house enquiries in the immediate area and I would stress it is important for anyone who has information possibly related to this incident, to please get in touch. This includes anyone who might have heard sounds of a disturbance or argument taking place in or near the scene.”

DCI Watson added: “At this stage, the incident is being treated as an unexplained death. A woman was arrested at the scene on Wednesday evening.

“Magistrates have granted an extension for her to remain in custody until tomorrow evening.”

A post mortem was conducted yesterday by a Home Office pathologist. The Shropshire coroner Mr John Ellery has been informed and an inquest will be opened in due course.