A man has been charged with the murders of three elderly men found dead in their homes in Exeter.

Alexander Lewis-Ranwell, 27 - who is believed to have attended school in Kent - is accused of killing Anthony Payne, 80, and 84-year-old twin brothers, Richard and Roger Carter.

Post-mortem examinations have revealed they all sustained serious head injuries.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the deaths had been linked because of the "level of violence used".

Lewis-Ranwell, who is said to have attended Sevenoaks Preparatory School before moving to the West Country, has also been charged with two offences of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He was arrested following the discovery of the bodies earlier this week.

Mr Payne - known as Tony - was found dead at his house on Monday, while the Carter twins were discovered at their home about 1.5 miles away the following day.

Mr Lewis-Ranwell was charged late last night and is due to appear at Exeter Magistrates' Court today.

Supt Matt Lawler, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said: "All of our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the victims."