A MAN is to appear in court charged with the murder of his parents.

Martin Ruddy, 28, is accused of killing Eric and Carol Ruddy, who were attacked in their North-East home on Friday night.

Emergency services were called to Bentinck Street, in Elswick, Newcastle, following reports that three people had been injured.

Police officers attended the scene at 10.25pm where the couple were found with life-threatening injuries.

They were taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, but were later pronounced dead.

A neighbour said: “We're all so shocked. My son lives next door and went into the house to revive Eric.

“Another couple also went in and helped. We are a close knit community and all like to help each other. This is so upsetting for all of us.”

It is understood Mrs Ruddy was a wheelchair user and her husband had worked as a bin man, but retired early to be her carer.

Northumbria Police has confirmed Martin Ruddy is the son of the dead couple.

Ruddy, who lives in South Tyneside, had been charged with two counts of murder.

He is due to appear before North Tyneside Magistrates' Court tomorrow.

Newcastle City Councillor Dipu Ahad said this was a sad day for the “tight-knit” community of Elswick.

“There is a lot of confusion and anxiety in the area. My thoughts go out to this couple’s family and friends at this deeply distressing time.”

Extra police are in the area carrying out enquiries and officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fairlamb from the major crime unit said: "We want to speak to anyone who may have been in the area of Bentinck Street in Elswick between 9pm and 10.30pm on Friday who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, or out of the ordinary, to contact police straightaway.

"Police are asking for help from the community in order to piece together the events that led up this incident."

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, extension 69191, or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.