Woman arrested on suspicion of man’s murder at Tenerife hotel

Detectives have arrested a British woman after a man was found dead in a hotel in Tenerife.

Russell Watts, 63, from South Yorkshire, was found dead in his room at the Hotel Catalonia Punta Del Rey on the Spanish island of Candelaria last month.

A murder investigation has been launched and on Wednesday South Yorkshire Police said they had arrested a 56-year-old woman from the Rotherham area on suspicion of murder. He was being held in police custody.

Known for his dreadlocks, Mr Watts was a popular figure in the Thrybergh area on the outskirts of Rotherham.

Friends and relatives paid tribute to him, describing him as intelligent, “a top guy” and “an absolute legend”.

Cassie Watts wrote on social media: “Oh my heart, you left a void that no one can fill.. I love you to heaven.”

Working men’s club Thrybergh Top Club wrote: “Russ was a character to say the least and brought energy to the club every time he came on.

“Russ was loved by all and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Clair Crosby wrote: “Russ will always be a very clever man in his mind!… In fact, I would go so far as to call him a genius.”

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Ben Wood said: “This is a complex case and our thoughts are first and foremost with Russell’s family, friends and loved ones.

“Our investigation into Russell’s death is still in its early stages and we are carrying out a number of comprehensive inquiries to piece together the events leading to Russell’s death.”

Ch Insp Wood said they wanted to hear from anyone who stayed at the hotel at the time and appealed to anyone who saw anything suspicious or had information that could assist the investigation to report it.

“Even the smallest piece of information can be very important and I would urge anyone who knows anything to contact us immediately,” he said.