POLICE are still questioning a man over the murders of Bewdley ex-teacher Betty Yates, 77 and South Gloucestershire vicar John Suddards, 59.

Avon and Somerset police have been granted permission to hold Stephen Farrow, 47, until 4.20am tomorrow.

When their time is up, the force could apply for another 24 hours, to take the length of time he has been in custody without charge to the maximum of 96 hours.

If he is formally charged within this time, police will be able to keep him in custody.

The wanted man was arrested in Folkestone, Kent, at 4.20am on Sunday.

West Mercia Police officers investigating Mrs Yates's death said the two murders had been "formally linked".

Both victims were stabbed to death in their homes which were found locked.

Another man who does not live locally, who was arrested on February 2 and interviewed in North Worcestershire in connection with Mrs Yates' murder is still on bail.

Avon and Somerset police arrested another man, aged 43, on February 15 on suspicion of the murder of John Studdards but he was released without charge.