Safety fears after widow's murder

People living near Mrs Hughes' home are worried about their safety

People living near to a 90-year-old widow who was murdered in her home say they are worried for their safety.

Elsie Hughes was attacked in her home in Abermorddu, near Wrexham on 8 September.

On Wednesday around 50 people took part in a community meeting in Caergwrle to discuss their concerns about security.

Police have renewed their appeal for information about a couple seen outside a restaurant near Mrs Hughes' home on the night she was attacked.

Mrs Hughes had been the victim of a distraction burglary at her home in August during which her savings were stolen.

Residents from the local area worried about security met representatives from the police, the neighbourhood watch, and Flintshire council.

It's important to understand that this area of the country is one of the safest to live in Sergeant Steve Bryan

One resident, who did not want to be named, said she had become very nervous since Mrs Hughes' murder.

"Since the really sad events with Elsie I feel really, really terrified in my home and I have never been like that," she said.

"My husband goes away sometimes and now I'm just really scared, which is a shame because I've been really care free for all my life.

"The local residents all along are more scared now. We're trying to use everything we can to implement safety into our homes."

People who took part in the meeting were given free door locks and alarms, and advice about how to use them.

Mrs Hughes was attacked in her home near Wrexham

Sergeant Steve Bryan, a community beat manager in south Flintshire, said it was very rare to have an attack in the area.

"At any time during a 24-hour period there's a police officer on the end of a phone," he said.

"Despite the tragic death of Elsie, it's important to understand that this area of the country is one of the safest to live in.

"The amount of burglaries that are occurring have actually gone down."

Another community surgery will be held on Thursday from 1200 BST to 1500 BST at Hope Parish Hall.

Meanwhile, police have made another appeal for information about a couple who they think have information which could help the investigation.

The couple were seen at the Kowloon takeaway in Abermorddu, on the night Mrs Hughes was attacked.

It is believed they may have spoken to a man who police want to question in connection with Mrs Hughes' death.

Police said the couple are between 40 and 50 years old, and are thought to be from outside the area.

Anyone with information can call 0845 6071002 (English language line), or 0845 6071001 (Welsh language line) or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.