Police said it is "our strong belief based on all the evidence available that the two people in question are no longer alive".

Virginia McCullough, from Pump Hill, Chelmsford, has now been charged with two counts of murde

Police were alerted to concerns for the welfare of two people aged in their 70s on Wednesday.

Police said it is "our strong belief based on all the evidence available that the two people in question are no longer alive".

Virginia McCullough, from Pump Hill, Chelmsford, has now been charged with two counts of murder.

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby said: "Although we have received authorisation to charge Virginia McCullough, this complex and in-depth investigation will be continuing at pace throughout the coming weeks and months.