Grandparents found murdered in their own home in County Armagh

An elderly couple have been stabbed to death in their home in Northern Ireland.

The pensioners, both 83, have been named as grandparents Michael and Marjorie Cawdery.

They were found dead by their daughter-in-law at the house in Upper Ramone Park, Portadown, County Armagh, on Friday afternoon.

A man in his forties was arrested less than a mile from the scene of the double murder and is being questioned.

It is thought the couple may have disturbed a burglar before being attacked.

Police confirmed they were following "a line of inquiry" but did not reveal any motive.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes said: "We are now treating this as a murder investigation and I would like to appeal for any information around it.

"It was a very brutal attack but I would like to reassure the public there are extra police patrols in the area and that will remain and we have made an arrest."

Mr Geddes said a grey Renault Kangoo van which had been taken from the couple's home was found around 5pm in the nearby Edenderry area.

He said officers were also investigating whether an attempt to break into a car parked in Upper Ramone Park at 12.20pm on Friday was linked to the murders.

A Cawdery family statement said: "The awful and incomprehensible events... have deprived our family of two wonderful people Michael and Marjorie who were our father, mother, brother, sister and grandparents.

"We thank the police for their prompt response and professional actions. We also thank everyone who has expressed sympathy in whatever way and offered help.

"Finally, we ask for respect and privacy in the coming days as the family try to come to terms with their loss."