Police investigate '˜unexplained' East Lothian deaths

AN investigation is under way after a married couple were found dead in their home.

The man and woman were found at a property in Inglis Avenue, Port Seton, on Friday.

Police said the deaths in Port Seton, East Lothian, were being treated as “unexplained” as neighbours told of their shock.

The couple, named locally as Patricia and David Barraclough, were discovered at the house in Inglis Avenue on Friday afternoon.

It is understood police were called to the property at around 3.45pm following the discovery, understood to have been made by a relative.

One neighbour said the community had been left reeling by the tragedy.

She said: “They were quite a quiet couple but they were really nice – we got on really quite well with them.

“We knew them as Trish and Dave. It’s very sad.”

Another added: “It’s shocking news to hear and must be terrible for the family.

“There were ambulances and police cars outside the house late on Friday, but the police have not divulged anything.”

It is understood Patricia, 52, and David, 55, had previously lived in Dunbar before moving to Port Seton around 17 years ago.

Neighbours said Patricia acted as a full-time carer for her husband.

Another local resident said: “Everyone is absolutely shocked at what’s happened. It’s just so tragic.”

Their house was sealed off over the weekend as forensic officers investigated the scene.

Several officers in white overalls were pictured entering and leaving the property while a uniformed policewoman stood guard at the door.

However, it is understood police are not treating the deaths as suspicious.

A source close to the couple’s extended family said they had been left “devastated”.

She added: “I was traumatised when I heard the news at 11pm on Friday. It’s so sad.

“It really is a shame. But we don’t know anything about the circumstances yet.

“I say a little prayer when I think of them. They loved each other.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said inquiries into the couple’s deaths were ongoing – with the incident treated as “unexplained”.

He said: “Police in East Lothian are investigating following the death of a 55-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman at an address in Inglis Avenue, Port Seton.

“Inquiries are ongoing. Both deaths are being treated as unexplained at this time. A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.”