TRIBUTES were paid today to a devoted couple who are believed to have died within minutes of each other.

Stewart Whitfield, 56, and his wife Olga, 61, were found dead at their home in South Tyneside on Sunday evening.

Northumbria Police and the ambulance service were called to the property in Tracey Avenue, West Boldon, shortly after 10pm after reports of concern for the occupants, a police spokesman said.

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, claimed that both Mr and Mrs Whitfield died of heart attacks within minutes of each other.

She said: "I've just heard that she had a heart attack and he phoned for an ambulance.

"Then he had a heart attack and by the time the ambulance arrived they were both dead."

The front door of the semi-detached house is now boarded up after neighbours said police had to break into the property when they arrived at the scene.

Another neighbour said: "The police came knocking on our door to see if we knew them. It was some time between 10.30pm and 11.30pm.

"The police broke the front door to get in, which is why it's now boarded up."

The news of the deaths has shocked the whole community.

One neighbour said: "They were just a lovely couple. Theyve lived around here for years.

"They were always out walking together. And Stewart was very into his gardening. I'm really shocked as they seemed so fit and healthy."

Another said: "We have lost a lovely neighbour and friend."

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said a report was being prepared for the coroner.

He confirmed that no third party was involved.