An inquest has opened into the deaths of an elderly couple found dead at their home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, after a welfare check. Berwick Telford, 78, and Rhona Telford, 79, were discovered at an address on Grange Park Avenue on September 12 after police were called following concerns for the occupants' welfare.
Investigation and inquest details
At the time, Detective Inspector Robert Lees said: "We understand the concern this incident will have likely caused in the local community, and I would like to reassure residents that a thorough investigation is being carried out, and we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this matter."
He added: "Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of those involved."
The inquests were opened at Cheshire Coroner's Court by area coroner Victoria Davies, who said an inquest was warranted due to the couple's 'unnatural' deaths. The inquest has been adjourned, with a hearing set to take place on March 30 next year.
Neighbours pay tribute
One neighbour, who had lived in the area for 25 years, was in tears as she left flowers at the front of the property. She said: "Oh, it's so terribly terribly sad. He was such a devoted husband. They were always so lovely, very kind and always chatting. I am just in disbelief that such an awful thing has happened... I am in shock."
Another neighbour, who had lived in the area for 15 years, said: "I did not know them personally or closely, but I did know that they were kind, and this is a very sad time for us all."
A resident further down the road told the Manchester Evening News: "It is a shame we only have good things to say about people once they're gone. But, they were good, very good and our whole community will miss them. We're all still in shock, it's dreadful. A horrific thing to learn."
Another man walking nearby with his dog said "something like this doesn't happen" in the area, adding: "My heart goes out to them, anyone that was close with them. It makes me very emotional actually."
