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Tributes paid to grandmother, Sandra Squires, who was stabbed to death in Bright Ridge, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells

11:52, 06 September 2024

updated: 12:55, 06 September 2024

Tributes have been paid to an 82-year-old who was stabbed to death in her home.

Sandra Squires was found in Bright Ridge, Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells at around 11pm on August 31. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sandra Squires, pictured 10 years ago, was a 'well-liked' member of her bowling club. Picture: Grove Bowling Club
Sandra Squires, pictured 10 years ago, was a 'well-liked' member of her bowling club. Picture: Grove Bowling Club

Another man, who is understood to be her grandson, was also found with stab wounds, and was taken to a local hospital in serious condition.

He was later arrested by officers on suspicion of murder but, on September 3, he died in hospital.

Now, the bowling club which Sandra was part of since 2006, have paid tribute to the “well-liked” member.

In a statement on behalf of the Grove Bowling Club in Tunbridge Wells, it said Sandra was “an enthusiastic bowler” who had regularly participated in social activities.

The club spokesperson said: “We were very sorry to hear about the death of Sandra Squires.

Sandra was a member of the Grove Bowling Club since 2006. Picture: Google Maps
Sandra was a member of the Grove Bowling Club since 2006. Picture: Google Maps

“She and her husband, Bill, joined the Grove Bowling Club around 2006 and frequently played for the club in matches against other local teams.

“She was an enthusiastic bowler and often entered the club's summer competitions.

“She also took part in the club's social activities and regularly helped to prepare meals for members and visitors and serve behind the bar.

“Sandra and Bill were both good bowlers and were well-liked and respected by other members.

“Bill passed away in 2013 but Sandra remained a club member for several more years.”

There was a large emergency presence at the scene of the crime
There was a large emergency presence at the scene of the crime

Others in the community have also expressed their “shock” at the grandmother’s death.

Kimberley Godsall, 41, of Bright Ridge Southborough, said: “It’s very sad for the family involved, you don’t want something like that to happen to anyone.

“It’s a very small community and it is not something you would expect to happen around here.”

Len Fermor, 84, who has lived in the community for over 50 years said: “It’s very sad to hear, and it’s usually such a quiet area and most people get on.

“It’s not nice to go that way.”

Police in Bright Ridge in Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, after Sandra Squires was killed
Police in Bright Ridge in Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells, after Sandra Squires was killed

Another resident, who knew the woman and man who died, did not wish to be named but said: “I am very shocked and it’s come as a surprise to hear what has happened – but everyone has pulled together.”

An investigation into both deaths will now be led by the coroner. Officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate will assist the process.

The police are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

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