Darlington pensioners found dead in home named by police

The couple have been named today as 86-year-old Brian Swaddle and his wife Olwyn, 84, and were found inside their home on Park Crescent in Darlington on Friday (May 17) by emergency services.

Police and crime scene investigators remained at the scene for several days and were pictured taking photographs inside the home.

The Park Crescent, Darlington home. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the couple's "unexpected" deaths as police appeal for any locals who may know information.

A Durham Constabulary statement reads: "An investigation is continuing as officers work to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths of two people at their home in Park Crescent, Darlington.

"86-year-old Brian Swaddle and his wife Olwyn, 84, were found shortly before 5.30pm, on Friday, May 17.

"Their deaths are currently being treated as unexpected.

"Officers are still keen to hear from anyone who may have seen them between Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 17 to get in touch.

"Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident reference 312 of May 17."

Neighbours had previously reacted with shock and upset at the large police presence on the street, with one neighbour calling Brian "the nicest bloke you will ever meet".

Police on Park Crescent, Darlington. (Image: Newsquest)

Read more:

• Bodies of two pensioners found on Park Crescent, Darlington

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Police were spotted around the home for several days following the discovery, unnerving some residents.

Reacting to the police presence, one resident said: "The police have been hanging around for three days now - there has always been someone there since Saturday. 

"You could see them walking around inside the house in white suits with flashlights at night.