STEPHEN Farrow has been charged with the murder of retired Bewdley teacher Betty Yates.

In the past few minutes, Avon and Somerset Police and West Mercia Police have confirmed the 47-year-old has been charged with two counts of murder.

In addition, he faces a charge of burglary relating to a property in Thornbury between December 21, 2011 and the January 3, 2012 and will appear at North Avon Magistrates Court tomorrow.

Avon and Somerset Police have been questioning Farrow since his arrest on Sunday (19) in connection with the murder of 77-year-old Mrs Yates on January 2 and the stabbing of Rev John Suddards, 59, at his vicarage in Thornbury, South Gloucestershire last Tuesday.

Mrs Yates was found dead at the bottom of the stairs at her riverside home on January 4. It is believed she was killed two days earlier.

Mr Suddards’s body was discovered on February 14 by workmen who arrived to carry out work at the vicarage.

Officers thanked members of the public for their assistance with the cases.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Crisp from Avon and Somerset Constabulary's Major Crime Investigation Team said: "Once again it has been the contribution of a member of the public that has made the difference - my thanks go to that person for their courage in providing us with that vital information."

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson of West Mercia Police said: "I would also like to express my gratitude to those members of the public who have helped us and responded to our appeals and I would also still encourage people to come forward and talk to us if they have information which could assist our inquiry.

"We still have a strong police presence in Bewdley and hope this will help reassure people that the area, and indeed the whole of the West Mercia, remains a very safe place in which to live, work and visit."

CPS Senior District Crown Prosecutor Siân Sullivan said: "Having reviewed this case in line with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, I have today decided that there is sufficient evidence to charge Stephen Farrow with the murders of Betty Yates and John Suddards. I have also authorised a charge of burglary at a separate address in Thornbury.

"I would like to remind all concerned that Stephen Farrow now stands charged with criminal offences and has the right to a fair trial. It is very important that nothing is said, or reported, which could prejudice a trial."

Anyone with information can pass it onto the police by calling 101 or ringing Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.