Cawdery double murder: Accused appears in court

Marjorie and Michael Cawdery were found in their home in Portadown on Friday

A 40-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the double murder of an elderly couple in County Armagh.

Thomas Scott McEntee, from Moorfield Court in Kilkeel, is accused of killing Michael and Marjorie Cawdery, both 83.

The pensioners' bodies were discovered by their daughter and son-in-law at their house in Portadown's Upper Ramone Park on Friday. It is believed they were stabbed.

The family of Mr and Mrs Cawdery have said they hope "justice will prevail".

In a statement issued through the PSNI, the family said they were "very relieved that a suspect had been charged" and thanked the police as well as all those who sent messages of sympathy.

Chequebook and car stolen

Mr McEntee stood in the dock of Lisburn Magistrates Court with his head bowed as he listened to the charges on Tuesday.

Mr McEntee was remanded into custody

He is accused of entering their home armed with a knife as well as stealing a chequebook and the couple's car.

A detective inspector said he could connect the accused to the charges.

His solicitor told the court his client has "mental health difficulties" and was under supervision in the police station.

A forensic officer leaves the house where Mr and Mrs Cawdery were murdered

No application for bail was made during the short hearing.

Mr McEntee was remanded into custody and will appear again in court on the 23 June.