POLICE investigating the deaths of a man and a woman at a farm in Dunkeswell have confirmed they believe one of them was murdered and the other took their own life.

Officers attended the £1.2 million farmhouse at 11.40pm yesterday (Wednesday, January 4) following concerns for the welfare of the two people.

On arrival officers found the 62-year-old man and the woman, aged 52, who are believed to be a married couple, dead at Abbey Mill Farm.

Detectives have launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding both deaths. Next of kin have been informed.

The couple have been named as Michael and Nicola Beck.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said a scene guard remains at the property while a forensic examination and searches are conducted.

Detective Superintendent Ken Lamont, from the Local Investigation Team, said: “This investigation is at a very early stage and inquiries continue to establish the circumstances around the deaths.

“However, at this time we are not looking for any other person in connection with this incident.”

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them on 101, quoting reference 0229 040117.

Detective Inspector Steve Davies, from the Major Crime Unit, said: “We are conducting house-to-house enquiries and have been carrying out searches at the premises today.

“We are not looking for any other person in connection with this isolated incident and can confirm that no other person was present at the premises at the time of this incident.”

DI Davies would not comment on the cause of death or if any weapons had been recovered.