Murder Probe As Two Women's Bodies Found

A double murder investigation has been launched after the deaths of two women found at addresses just a short walk apart.

The body of a woman in her 20s was found with multiple injuries in Worcester Road in Bootle, Merseyside, at about 9.15pm on Thursday.

At 4am the next morning, police found the body of a second woman, aged in her 50s, at a nearby property in Brookhill Road.

Police are linking the deaths and describing them as "suspicious", although the causes of death have yet to be established.

The women have not been formally identified but next of kin have been contacted.

Forensics officers have been at the scenes and CCTV is also being sought.

Detective Superintendent Tim Keelan said: "The investigation into these deaths is at an early stage and although the motive is unclear at this time, officers believe the offender may be known to the victims.

"I would like to reassure residents who live in the Bootle area, where these addresses are located, that we have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance and support."

Anyone with information can call police on 0800 230 0600 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.