A MURDER investigation has been launched following the death of a pensioner on Christmas Day.

Shortly after 8pm on December 25, emergency services were called to an address at Francis Avenue in Fairbourne, Gwynedd following reports that a 74 year old lady had sustained serious injuries.

Despite the best efforts of the victim’s family, police officers and paramedics who attended, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Kearney said: “Following police attendance at an address in Francis Avenue, Fairbourne Gwynedd yesterday evening, a 75 year old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody at a local Police Station. The coroner for North West Wales, Mr Dewi Pritchard Jones has been informed.

"This is a truly tragic and very rare type of occurrence in north west Wales and I wish to reassure the public that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. A Major Incident Room has been set up at Caernarfon Police Station.

He added that family liaison officers are supporting the victim’s family and that thoughts remain with the family, who ask that their privacy is respected at this time.