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Police have launched a murder hunt after finding a spinster dead in her hallway and her handbag dumped 25 miles away.

Judith Richardson, 77, was discovered by officers in her house in Hexham, Northumberland, when they went round to return her handbag.

It had been discovered earlier in Newcastle and detectives now believe she was killed in a robbery or burglary that went wrong.

Ms Richardson, who lived alone, died from severe head injuries. Police described the attack as 'brutal'.

A white tent was placed at the front door of her home after the discovery while forensic teams examined the crime scene.

There was no sign of a break-in, Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Young said.

He said: 'I would suggest the fact the bag was found that the motive could be robbery or burglary.'

Miss Richardson, who never married and lived alone, was regularly seen in Hexham walking her dog.

Her family said in a statement: 'This has been a devastating loss and we are all in a state of shock. Judith was a wonderful person and we all loved her dearly.

'We hope that anyone who can; will help police with their inquiries. We thank everyone for their condolences.'

Police believed she may have been seen yesterday morning out with her pet.

The results of a post-mortem examination should be known later.

The detective reassured elderly people in the area that there will be a strong police presence.

He added: 'We are working tirelessly to establish the exact circumstances and find those responsible.'

Local people appeared shocked at the news, with one saying: 'She was a lovely lady.'

Police were understood to be scouring through CCTV images of Hexham and Newcastle in a bid to catch those responsible.

Anyone who has any information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.