A man has today been charged with the murders of Thornbury vicar John Suddards and Bewdley teacher Betty Yates.

In addition to two counts of murder, Stephen John Farrow, aged 47, faces a burglary charge relating to a property in Thornbury.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Crisp from Avon and Somerset Constabulary's Major Crime Investigation Team said: "Once again it has been the contribution of a member of the public that has made the difference - my thanks go to that person for their courage in providing us with that vital information."

Detectives from Avon and Somerset Police have been working alongside detectives from West Mercia Police and will continue to do so.

Reverend Suddards was found stabbed to death at his Thornbury vicarage on February 14, while Ms Yates was murdered in Bewdley between January 1 and 3.

Farrow will appear at North Avon Magistrates Court on Thursday (February 23). 

Police are still encouraging members of the public to contact them if they have information which could assist the inquiry.

If you have any information to pass onto the police please call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.