A MURDER investigation has been launched after 83-year-old Josephine Williamson was found dead in her home in Lower Earley yesterday morning.

An elderly man was also found in the Elm Lane house with stomach injuries and was flown to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, where he remains.

Police worked through the night at the property as forensic experts combed the house for evidence.

Ambulance staff had initially been called to the home to treat a woman at around 11.25am yesterday but Josephine was declared dead at the scene.

Police are treating the death as unexplained and have described it as an "isolated incident".

Neighbours said they were shocked when they heard officers descending on the home yesterday morning.

One resident said: "I could not believe it, there were police in vans everywhere.

"We thought there had been an intruder in their house, that was the first thought.

"There was an ambulance there first.

"Then I heard the sound of the police cars and the crunch of the gravel as they approached."

She added that Josephine had previously worked as a PE teacher in Reading and said: "She was very fit up until around two years ago when she would be going out exercising almost everyday.

"She would go out in her PE kit."

Detective chief inspector Mark Glover of Thames Valley Police said: "We are in the process of determining the circumstances leading up to Josephine's death and the man’s injuries.

"However at this stage it appears to be an isolated incident.

"Next of kin have been informed. Forensic examinations are taking place at the property and officers are likely to be there for some time. We would like to thank the local residents for their patience and tolerance while we carry out our investigation."

A scene watch remained in place throughout the night as forensic investigators continued their work.

Numerous emergency service vehicles were seen surrounding the entrance to the cul-de-sac where the home is located.

* An 88-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.