Elderly couple found dead in Pateley Bridge named as police search for relatives

Frank Woods, 75, and his wife Anne Woods, 79, were found at their home following a call from a concerned member of the public on December 30.

Police have confirmed their are no suspicious circumstances surrounding their deaths, but officers are keen to trace the couple's friends and family.

Mr Woods was originally from the United States and may have relatives there.

Community leaders in the area have expressed their sorrow at the news.

“I’m very sorry to hear it, especially at this time of year,” said Councillor Stan Lumley, who represents the Pateley Bridge ward on Harrogate Borough Council.

“It is a tragedy.”

Pateley Bridge is a small Nidderdale market town on the edges of Harrogate.

Anyone who can help identify any next of kin is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police, on 101, quoting reference umber 12200247502.