Friends of an elderly man charged with murdering his wife have spoken of their shock after he was found dead at home.

Alan Thomas, 79, had been accused of killing 77-year-old Winifred, who had suffered from a long-term illness, in May.

He was released on bail and due to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday, August 25.

Mr Thomas' body was found at his home, in Deanwood Drive, Rainham, on Monday night after reports of concern for his well-being. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police are not treating the death as suspicious and a post mortem has revealed that he died from asphyxiation.

Friend Barbara King, 80, from Wigmore, said Alan was weighed down by the pressure of the impending court case.

She said: "Alan was so worried about the case. He had the weight of the world on his shoulders. He was the most loving husband in the world."

A neighbour, a woman in her 50s, said: "They were a lovely couple and great neighbours. It's all just such a shock."

Did you know the couple? Leave your tribute below, e-mail dboyle@thekmgroup.co.uk or phone 01634 227 835.

For the full story, pick up a copy of Monday's Medway Messenger.