It comes after Elizabeth Richings died at a property in the Southbourne area of the Dorset coastal town on Saturday 3 June.

Grenville Douglas Richings, 83, was taken to hospital following her death and has now been charged with her murder, police said.

He was discharged from hospital on Tuesday.

Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of Dorset Police, said: "We are continuing to do all we can to support Elizabeth's family and they have been informed of this latest development.

"This matter has been the subject of a detailed investigation and we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charge of murder."

"This case will now be the subject of active court proceedings and it is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course."

Richings is due to appear at Poole Magistrates' Court on Thursday.