Police name woman, 82, who died after break-in

The break-in was believed to have happened at some point between Friday evening and Saturday morning in Pakefield, Lowestoft

Police have named an 82-year-old woman who died from injuries sustained when masked intruders broke into her home.

Joy Middleditch was found conscious by officers called to her bungalow on Grayson Avenue, Pakefield, Lowestoft, just before 14:00 GMT on Saturday.

But she died in hospital on Monday morning.

Acting Supt Sarsfield Donohue said: "This was a callous and cowardly attack on an elderly and vulnerable victim in her own home."

A post-mortem examination was carried out but the cause of death has yet to be confirmed, Suffolk Police said.

Ms Middleditch was found conscious but died from her injuries on Monday

Specialist officers have been supporting the woman's family and there was an increased police presence in the area

Acting Supt Donohue said the force would do "everything in our power to catch and convict those responsible".

"I can understand this sort of thing will be really worrying and locals may be anxious so, in addition to the specialist units you would expect to see around the investigation, you will also see local patrols," he added.

Police said it had been reported masked men forced entry into the pensioner's property and knocked her to the ground before stealing her handbag.

It was believed the burglary happened at some point between Friday evening and Saturday morning.

Ms Middleditch was found lying on the floor conscious but had sustained injuries.

She was taken to James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk, but died in the early hours of Monday morning.

Police said her stolen handbag was later located in nearby Nelson Road but her purse was missing.

Patricia expressed disbelief at the incident that happened in a "quiet street"

People living in area in south Lowestoft have expressed their shock.

A woman called Patricia said: "It's very difficult to believe that in this quiet street, where everybody says hello to each other, that something so tragic could have happened."

Neighbours said Ms Middleditch was known in the area and would be seen with her dog.

They described her as a "lovely lady".

Suffolk Police said there would be a greater officer presence to give residents reassurance

A spokesperson for Housing 21, which runs the retirement homes where Ms Middleditch lived, said: “We are shocked and saddened by the loss of one of our residents and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very difficult time.

"The safety and wellbeing of our residents and employees remains our top priority and we are working to support everyone who has been affected by this isolated incident.

"We are supporting the police in their investigation and as this is an active case, will not be making any further comment at this time.”

Police have appealed for witnesses.