Man 'killed his wife then himself'

Detectives suspect that a man found hanging from scaffolding had killed himself after killing his wife, sources said.

Matthew Foakes, 45, of Daws Heath, Essex, was found dead in Southend, Essex, on Wednesday, officers said.

The following day the body of his wife Mandy Foakes, 46, was discovered at the family home Daws Heath, said police.

Sources said one theory was that Mr Foakes had killed his wife then committed suicide.

Police have not revealed how Mrs Foakes died but a spokesman said: "No-one else is being sought in connection with the deaths. Reports are being prepared for a coroner."

Locals said the couple had three children aged in their teens and 20s.