Gardaí have launched an investigation into the death of a woman in her 40's in Westmeath last night.

The mother of two was found in her home in the village of Ballynacargy and emergency services were notified.

Her remains have been removed to the Midlands Regional Hospital - where a post mortem will be carried out later today.

The office of the state pathologist has been notified.

Local Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy says the community's in shock: