Couple in their 70s died from shotgun wounds

AN ELDERLY couple found dead at their countryside home died from shotgun wounds, police said.

The bodies of John Knott, 71, and Elizabeth, 70, known as Anne, were discovered at their home in Pow Green, a hamlet near Ledbury in Herefordshire, on Monday morning.

A West Mercia Police spokeswoman said officers were called after family members expressed concern.

Post-mortem examinations carried out by a Home Office pathologist concluded they each died of a single shotgun wound.

Detective Inspector Richard Rees said: “Police visited their home on Monday after concerns were raised by their relatives.

“Sadly, a search of the property found them both deceased. They each had a single shotgun wound, which the post-mortems have now confirmed were the cause of death.

“A shotgun registered to Mr Knott was recovered at the scene.

“At this stage of our investigation there is no evidence of any third party involvement and we can confirm we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the shootings.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family at this time.

“We would like to speak to anyone who saw Anne and John Knott prior to Monday August 11.

“At present, the last confirmed sighting was around midday on Saturday August 9 and if anybody has had contact with them in recent days, we urge them to come forward.”

Members of the local community spoke of their shock at the deaths of Mr and Mrs Knott.

Rev Nicky Seabright, vicar of Bosbury, said: “The community in Bosbury are deeply shocked by the death of this couple as they were well-known locally, not least as plant growers and supporters of many events in the village.

“We do know that Anne was suffering from a progressive illness which must have been challenging for them both.

“We are obviously really sorry and full of sadness about what has happened.

“As a community we will need to come together and support each other.

The couple’s family did not wish to speak to the media.