A 59-year-old man has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in her 70s in Hitchin.

Police were called to Armour Rise at around 3.15pm on Tuesday (6 October) following a report raising concerns for someone's welfare.

Officers attended the address and discovered a woman in her 70s with serious injuries.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Douglas Hardy, 59, of Armour Rise, Hitchin, has been charged with murder.

He was due to appear at Hatfield Remand Court on Thursday (8 October).

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: "Our thoughts are with the woman's family and loved ones at this difficult time.

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"While a charge has now been secured, our investigation remains ongoing and officers will continue to carry out enquiries in the area over the coming days. At this time, no one else is being sought in connection with this incident.

"We understand that incidents of this nature can have a significant impact on the local community and may cause concern among residents. We would like to thank the public for their patience and assistance so far.

"Anyone who has information that could assist our investigation, or who has any concerns, is encouraged to speak to officers in the area or contact us through our usual channels."

Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Information can be reported online at herts.police.uk/report⁠, through the police's online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact⁠, or by calling 101.

Anyone contacting police should quote Operation Paraxial.