Area trawled for widow's killer

Elsie Hughes died in hospital following the attack

Police hunting the killer of a 90-year-old widow have been carrying out road checks and speaking to customers in local pubs and takeaways.

Elsie Hughes was found by her daughter with severe facial injuries at her home in Caergwrle, near Wrexham, on Thursday and died the following day in hospital.

Officers have described the attack as "savage and sustained".

They are investigating whether the murder is linked to a previous distraction burglary at her home.

Mrs Hughes' savings were taken by a man and woman during the incident last month.

North Wales Police said this was among a number of lines of inquiries.

In a statement on Friday, her family said she was a "loving mother and grandmother" who was well liked and respected within the community.

The victim's house and garden have been examined for forensic clues

"She was widowed at an early age and had to bring up a family by herself.

"Even though we are a small family we are all very close. No words can express the shock and sadness that we as a family feel at this time."

Detective Superintendent Ross Duffield said Mrs Hughes was found injured in the lounge of her home in Hawarden Road, Caergwrle, after a neighbour heard a noise and raised the alarm.

Mr Duffield said it had been a "savage attack on a defenceless lady".

He said: "This could have been your mother, your grandmother."

It's a bit unnerving really to think it can happen in such a small community George Roberts, neighbour

Forensic officers have searched her house and front garden. A post-mortem examination is due to be held.

House-to-house inquiries have been carried out and an appeal issued for information.

And on Friday night, officers visited pubs and takeaways in the area where the attack took place to ask people if they remembered having seen or heard anything suspicious on Thursday.

Neighbours have said they are shocked and appalled by Mrs Hughes' death.

George Roberts said: "We've known her for years. She was a very friendly sort, bit of a character really in the community.

"I don't think she could get about very well anymore on her legs. It's a bit unnerving really to think it can happen in such a small community."

Police are urging anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious or may have any information about the attack to contact them either on 0845 607 1001, the Welsh language line on 0845 607 1002 or via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.