A murder investigation has been launched after a mother was fatally stabbed and her six-year-old daughter injured.

Police were called at just after 3pm on Monday to reports of a woman stabbed at a flat in Hatherley Road, Walthamstow.

Police and ambulance attended and found a 26-year-old woman suffering from stab wounds to her arm and neck. 

The woman, named locally as Leighann Duffy, was taken to hospital where she died on Wedneday afternoon.

Next of kin are aware, but she is yet to be formally identified. 

A six-year-old girl received treatment at the scene for a minor injury and did not attend hospital.

Detective Chief Inspector Glen Lloyd said: "We are now investigating the murder of a young woman.

"While we continue to investigate the motive to this incident we believe that the suspect and the victim were known to each other.

"People living and working nearby may have seen something that could be of vital importance to investigators. I would urge anyone with information to contact officers."

Anyone with information can contact the incident room on 020 8345 3985. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.