Rachel's body was found in a bedsit in Exmouth

A new police investigation into the death of student Rachel Whitear, who died in a Devon bedsit, is to be supervised by the Police Complaints Authority (PCA).

Ms Whitear, 21, died in Exmouth three years ago and pictures of her body were used in an anti-drugs video, Rachel's Story, released last year.

Now a third police investigation is being launched following concerns raised by her parents, Michael and Pauline Holcroft, from Ledbury in Herefordshire.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary voluntarily asked the PCA to supervise the new inquiry, which will be conducted by the Wiltshire force.

There is the possibility that she was not alone when she died Pauline Holcroft, Rachel's mother

The PCA said on Wednesday that a member of Rachel's family had complained the inquiry into her death was not dealt with properly, and the inquest verdict did not reflect the truth.

The Devon Coroner recorded an open verdict at the inquest into her death, saying he was certain she did not die of a heroin overdose.

Toxicology tests showed there was not enough heroin in her blood to kill her.

Mrs Holcroft has said she did not think Rachel's death was property investigated by Devon and Cornwall Police.

"I have never used the word 'murder', but there is the possibility that she was not alone when she died," she said.

'Get the answers'

Mr and Mrs Holcroft have said they would allow their daughter's body to be exhumed to answer questions about her death.

No post mortem examination was performed on Rachel.

Authority member Duncan Gear, who will supervise the investigation, said: "I will seek to ensure that Ms Whitear's parents get the answers that they deserve.

"The inquiry will review the circumstances that led up to Ms Whitear's tragic death."