A MAN has been charged with the murder of 82-year-old Joan Smyth who was found dead at her flat in Wakeley Road, Rainham, last week.

Richard Graham Loudwell, of Lower Twydall Lane, Gillingham, appeared at Medway Magistrates Court at the weekend. Police officers launched an investigation into the pensioner's death after results of a post mortem. She is believed to have died late on Monday, December2 or early on Tuesday 3.

Medway Police are keen to establish her whereabouts on Monday.

Det Ch Insp Matthew Nix said: "We believe Joan shopped in the Rainham precinct area at some point during that day. Any information the public can give us about her movements would be of great assistance to our investigation."

Anyone with information can call Medway Police on 01634 884091.