Police have arrested a man on suspicion of burgling a Leicestershire garden centre whose owner was later found dead.

The 34-year-old man has been questioned about the break-in at Hill View Nurseries in Croft Road, Thurlaston, near Narborough between the night of Tuesday September 23 and 7am the next day.

The contents of the pick and mix sweets stand and a freezer load of ice cream were among the items stolen.

The centre’s owner, John Watkinson, became ill and died when he arrived to open the centre the next day and discovered it had been burgled.

His wife found him a short time later and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.

It was the second break-in at the centre in the space of just a few weeks.

It had previously been targeted on Friday, August 8, when cash, sweets and garden ornaments were taken. Police have confirmed they believe the break-ins may be linked.

Pc Nev Walker said: “I would urge anyone who thinks they may know who is responsible for this burglary to get in touch as soon as possible.

“Even if you’re not 100 per cent sure but have heard rumours locally, please contact us.

“We would also like to speak to anyone who has been approached by someone selling sweets in suspicious circumstances or has come across ice-cream containers discarded in the area.”

The 34-year-old suspect has been released on police bail while officers continue their inquiries.

Contact Pc Walker on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.