A COUPLE found dead in their own home have been described as “friendly” and “nice” by neighbours left in shock by the deaths.

Officers were called by the ambulance service after concerns were raised about the welfare of two people at an address in Tankerville Drive, Leigh, at 9.55am on Saturday.

A man, aged in his 70s, and a woman, in her 60s, were both found dead.

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, has lived next door to the married couple for 37 years.

She said: “It’s very difficult to get my brain around. I’m really shocked by what’s happened.

“Seeing all the police and ambulance was a shock.

“I have lived here 40 years and never seen anything like this. We are both in complete shock at what’s happened. We can’t get over it.”

The neighbour described the two deaths as “tragic” and said the community was left shaken by the incident.

The resident added: “They were very friendly and they always got on very well together. He was a keen cyclist and they just got on.

“They were married a long time.

“If we saw them we would have a good old chat. I just can’t get over it they were really nice.

“I’m so saddened I think everybody around here is saddened.

“It’s tragic.”

Police, including forensics officers, were spotted at the scene throughout Saturday and overnight.

Forensic officers were also at the home on Monday morning alongside a police car situated outside the home.

No arrests have been made and police continue to investigate.

Another neighbour who lived opposite the couple said: “They just seemed very pleasant.

“It’s very sad they seemed nice.

“I just keep looking at the house wondering what happened.”

Essex Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths and inquiries are ongoing.

“No arrests have been made.”

Anyone who has information should submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.