Man Arrested Over Pensioner's 'Savage' Murder

A man has been arrested by police investigating the murder of retired schoolteacher Betty Yates in Worcestershire.

Mrs Yates, 77, was found stabbed to death at her riverside cottage on the outskirts of Bewdley on Wednesday, January 4.

The man, who does not live locally, was arrested at his home on Thursday night after he was interviewed in relation to the inquiry.

He was taken to a police station in North Worcestershire for questioning by detectives.

He has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Earlier this week, Mrs Yates' children said they were "bewildered" over her "savage" killing.

During a news conference, her son David Yates and daughter Hazel Costello appealed for information.

"We are completely bewildered as to who could carry out such a savage attack on our mother," said Mrs Costello, 53.

"That this should have happened in her home makes this even more difficult to bear.

"Our mum and dad searched for many years to find this spot and then built their dream; not just in bricks and mortar.

"Our father Ray died almost seven years ago and there was never a possibility in our minds that mum would want to leave the cottage."

Mrs Yates' son David, 51, said he was surviving "day by day" and was having difficulty coping with his mother's murder.

She was well-known in the area and was a member of Wyre Forest University of the Third Age, an activities group for older people.

She hosted book readings at her home and was also a member of local art and walking groups as well as Bewdley Civic Society.

She kept fit with regular swims at a hotel in Bewdley.

:: Anyone who believes they may have information that could help the investigation is asked to call West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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