Detectives' plea over OAP killing

Margaret Weir was found dead in her flat on Christmas Eve

Police investigating the murder of a 93-year-old widow in Glasgow are appealing for help to catch her killer.

Margaret Weir's body was found in her home in the Woodside area of the city on Christmas Eve.

The pensioner was subjected to a violent attack. A number of neighbours reported hearing a disturbance at the time of her death.

Police said they were still trying to establish a motive. They asked for the public's help in solving the crime.

Detective Superintendent Kenny Watters said Mrs Weir was the victim of a "particularly violent attack" at her flat in the city.

Incident caravan

He added: "We are still trying to establish a motive for this cowardly crime and are pursuing all lines of inquiry.

"An incident caravan has been set up at the flats, and I would encourage anyone who thinks they could assist in any way to speak to the police.

"This was a particularly violent attack and I find it despicable that a lady who has lived through two world wars is killed in such a manner."

Police are to increase patrols in and around Raglan Street

Mrs Weir's body was discovered by a neighbour shortly after 0800 GMT at the address in Raglan Street, Woodside.

The pensioner, known as Peggy to her neighbours, was widowed 10 years ago and lived alone.

Mr Watters believes the killer may have broken into Mrs Weir's flat three hours before her body was discovered.

Asked if there was any evidence Mrs Weir had been robbed, he said: "We have yet to establish if anything is missing from the house."

He said extra officers would be on the streets of Maryhill, which is about two miles from Glasgow city centre.

"Fortunately, these types of crimes are uncommon but obviously very distressing for all concerned," Mr Watters said.

"I would like to reassure those in the community that everything is being done to track down the person responsible and extra police patrols are in the area."