A murder hunt was launched after a frail elderly couple were found dead in their home.

Police officers cordoned off the red brick detached house after the bodies of the couple- both in their 80s - were found there.

Neighbours said that John and Joan Britton lived at the house in Strensall, York.

Paramedics were called to the address at about 11.20am on Sunday, but the couple were declared dead by the time they arrived.

A uniformed officer stood guard on the house, while other uniformed officers and a scenes of crime officer carried out initial investigations in the grounds yesterday afternoon.

A full search of the property and surrounding area started at 7pm.

North Yorkshire Police said that a 20-strong team of officers was investigating the deaths.

The man leading the investigation, Detective Superintendent Barry Honeysett, said today: "Someone has taken the lives of a frail lady and gentleman in their 80s.

"It is imperative that this person or persons are brought to justice as quickly as possible.

"I want to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious on or near the junction of Strensall Road and Towthorpe Lane, close to Strensall Barracks, between 8.30am and midday on Sunday."

A force spokesman said detectives also wanted to hear from anyone who walked or drove through the junction between those times, and asked anyone with information to phone York CID on 01904 631321.

Police have not yet released any details of how the couple died or the circumstances in which they were found.

Neighbour Steve Richmond said the village was in shock. "They were just a nice couple," he said. "They were getting old. I think he was poorly and his wife was poorly. Some of the neighbours used to help them out sometimes and do things for them.

"He used to do the Neighbourhood Watch at one time. It's shocking. Nothing seems to happen round here."