An 86-year-old woman found dead in her own home after an attack which left her husband fighting for his life has been described as "nicest person on earth".
Freda Walker was found in her Derbyshire home along with her 88-year-old husband Kenneth by a neighbour on Saturday morning.
Armed police were today seen patrolling the neighbourhood as the manhunt for the killer continues.
Ambulance crews dashed to Langwith Junction after a neighbour raised the alarm at 9.30am. Police have launched a murder probe.
Mr Walker, former chairman of Bolsover District Council, was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The retired miner - who celebrated his 88th birthday last week - remains in a critical condition in hospital.
Armed police have been patrolling the village today as residents were urged to lock windows and doors while the killer was on the loose.
Flowers were left outside the couple's home as the community struggles to come to terms with the killings.
A card on a bunch of flowers read: "To the best friend anyone could ever have had in their lives.
"I shall miss you so much, I can't believe this happened to the nicest person on this earth."
Another card said: "To a lovely lady who would help anyone she could without hesitating. She will be missed."
Shocked residents paid tribute to Mrs Walker, describing her as a "generous person with a warm spirit" who was known for her charity work.
One neighbour said: "Freda was the most generous person you could ever meet and had such a kind and warm spirit.
"The couple didn't have any children and I think helping others was her way of being a mother to those who were less fortunate.
"She worked with homeless charities and just wanted people to have a chance to make a life for themselves.
"The community here are in real shock. It's so sad and an awful thing to happen to two pillars of their community."
Last month, Mr Walker, who sits on Shirebrook Town Council, was awarded an honorary status for his service to Bolsover District Council.
A friend of Mr Walker said: "Everyone's numb with shock. Ken is a lovely man and was devoted to Freda.
"They didn't have children but gave all their time to helping others. Ken was still very active on the council and had no plans to retire.
"Freda was dedicated to her charity work and was passionate about helping rough sleepers."
Derbyshire Police Chief Superintendent Hayley Barnett said the couple suffered "horrific injuries" and said the force was "doing all we can to find those responsible".
She said: “This is a horrific incident for the community of Langwith Junction and our thoughts remain with the family and friends of those affected.
“While the investigation is in its early stages, I can confirm this is not being treated as a domestic incident.
“There was also a serious level of violence used in the incident and we are doing all we can to understand the circumstances and find those responsible.
“A team of detectives are working round the clock and I would urge anyone, particularly any drivers with dashcam or homeowners with CCTV that covers the area, to come forwards as a matter of urgency.”
A gofundme fundraising page has been set up to support the couple's loved ones. To donate, click here
