Three quizzed by police over double murder

Three people are being questioned by police today in connection with the murder of a widow and her adopted daughter.

Iris Jones, 78, and Mandy Joseph, 34, were found dead at their home in Hockliffe, Bedfordshire. Police refused to confirm reports that the women had been shot.

Two men and a woman were arrested in another county yesterday in connection with the murders, which happened on Sunday.

Armed officers arrived at the house, which is behind a petrol station and car workshop owned by the family, following a 999 call.

Petrol station manager Graham Adamson, 56, said Mrs Jones suffered from diabetes and heart problems and Mandy, who was adopted at the age of four, had devoted herself to looking after her.

Mrs Jones's son Brian, who lives in nearby Stanbridge, owns the house and land where he ran a car workshop, Mr Adamson said.