Elderly woman, 85, found bludgeoned to death in her Essex home after 'cowardly assault'

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An 85-year-old woman was murdered in a “cowardly assault” in her own home, police have said.

A handyman found the pensioner, named as Rosina Coleman, beaten to death in Romford, east London, after the “despicable” attack.

Scotland Yard has launched a murder investigation following Tuesday morning's discovery. No arrests have been made.

Ms Coleman's next of kin have been informed and a post-mortem examination is expected to take place later this week.

“This is a despicable incident in which the victim, an elderly lady who lived alone, had been subjected to a cowardly assault that left her with serious injuries," said Detective Inspector Paul Considine. “She was discovered by a handyman working at the address."

He added: “I want to ask anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious to call police immediately. Did you hear anyone in distress or notice someone in the area who may have looked out of place?

“Even a fragment of information is beneficial to our investigation. It is imperative that we find those responsible for this horrendous offence.”

PA