POLICE have ruled out foul play after an elderly couple were found dead in separate rooms of their bungalow.

John and Ann Scarle, of Eastwood Road North, Leigh, were discovered by concerned neighbours on October 11.

The couple, in their 70s, had not been seen for several days.

Up to 15 emergency services vehicles raced to the house at about 6.30pm, including a hazardous area response team from the ambulance service.

Detectives and forensics teams then spent the entire night and most of the following day examining the scene and the garden.

A post mortem was held on Friday and although the results were inconclusive police have been able to rule out any third party involvement.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police were called to an address in Eastwood Road North at about 6.25pm on Tuesday, October 11, with concerns for the welfare of an elderly couple inside.

“Officers attended and found a man and a woman, both aged in their 70s, who were sadly declared dead at the scene.

“Post mortem examinations have been completed and the cause of their deaths is inconclusive.

“Further tests will now be carried out.

“However, it has been established there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding their deaths and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

Lesley Salter, councillor for Belfairs ward, said although the deaths remain a “tragedy” the news would bring some comfort to residents.

She said: “Speculation doesn’t really do anyone any good, it just gets people worried.

“I can see why neighbours would have been anxious and all sorts of horrible thoughts come into our minds.

“There were a lot of people who knew them who lived around them and they would have been very upset.

“This will, at least, make them feel there is nothing more to worry about even if it is very sad.

“For a couple to die together like this is a tragedy.”

Police will now carry out a toxicology report.

An inquest into the deaths will be held at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court in due course.