POLICE say they are “still investigating” the mystery death of a Monmouth landlady at her pub early on Saturday morning (February 9), with a post-mortem scheduled for today (February 13).

Paramedics were called to the Gate House beside the town’s historic Monnow Bridge just before 4am where they found Judith Ramsden unresponsive.

Police were called after the 65-year-old was declared dead at the scene at 4.25am, and scene of crimes officers spent much of the day at the 200-year-old pub.

Her family announced on Monday evening (February 12) that they would be reopening yesterday because it was what their beloved “Mamma would want”.

Despite a police helicopter flying over the scene on Saturday and rumours circulating on social media, Gwent Police have declined to confirm whether anyone has been arrested or charged in conection with her death, or whether they are looking for someone.

A force spokesperson, who also declined to confirm who had died and the exact location, said: “On Saturday, February 9, emergency services were called to a report that a woman was unresponsive within a property in Monnow Street, Monmouth.

“We are currently investigating the circumstances. Next of kin have been informed.”

Asked to clarify and put the rumours online to rest more than 48 hours after they were first called, they added: “We don’t have any further update at this time.

“However I can confirm that it was not a stabbing and the helicopter was not connected to this investigation. Investigations are still ongoing.”

A family statement posted on the pub’s Facebook page on Saturday night by Mrs Ramsden’s husband and co-landlord Phil Ramsden said: “It is with our deepest sadness that we are placing this notice to inform of the passing of Judith Ramsden, our beloved wife, mother and grandmother on the 9th February 2019.

“Her passing was sudden and completely unexpected; therefore, due to these circumstances we will be unable to open the Gate House whilst further arrangements are being made.

“We would like to thank our friends, staff and regular customers for their understanding during this difficult time and will be notifying of any further information and arrangements for the funeral in due course.

“Once again we would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support and will appreciate the time needed as necessary to make these arrangements and adapt to our devastating loss.

“Sincerely Phil, Charlotte, Westley, Christopher and Alexandrea.”

On Monday evening, the family posted that they would be reopening yesterday in tribute to ‘Mamma Jude’.

They said: “The following days since the passing of our dear “Mamma Jude” have been heartbreaking!! As a family we are completely lost without her…

“The Gatehouse is the result of 22 years of hard work, dedication, devotion and family/staff teamwork.

“But it was Jude that was the glue that made The Gatehouse… “THE GREAT HOUSE”.

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