Valerie Graves death: Man held on suspicion of murder

Valerie Graves was staying at the house with three family members

A man has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of an artist who was found dead at the property where she was house-sitting.

Valerie Graves was found at the house in Smuggler's Lane in Bosham, near Chichester, West Sussex, in December.

The 55-year-old artist had been staying there with three family members while the owners were away.

Police said a 22-year-old man, who has not been named, was detained on Tuesday and is currently in custody.

The body of Ms Graves was found at the property on 30 December.

A post-mortem examination revealed she suffered head and facial injuries, but detectives have not confirmed whether a weapon was used.

Speaking at a news conference on 3 January, her son Tim Wood said she had only just returned to West Sussex to be closer to the family after living in Scotland.

"My mum was much loved and will be sorely missed by the whole family," he told reporters.

"She was a free spirit who enjoyed her life and was a talented artist.

"She had lived in Scotland for about 10 years, a place she loved and which inspired her passion for art."