Family pay tribute to 'kind and caring' woman

A 73-year-old woman who died after being found with serious injuries has been described by her family as "kind and caring".

Elizabeth Hardy, from Henlow in Bedfordshire, was found by Hertfordshire Police officers at an address in Armour Rise, Hitchin, on 6 October, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said her nephew Douglas Hardy, 59, who lives in the street, was charged with murder and his trial was due to start at St Albans Crown Court on 15 March.

In their tribute, her family said: "Elizabeth, known as Liz to her family and friends, was a kind and caring person who would do anything for anyone."

They continued: "Liz loved talking to people and her warm nature made it easy for her to make new friends.

"Liz enjoyed her gardening and liked spending time completing word puzzles and jigsaws.

"We will miss her always, but we know through this unbearable grief we have precious memories to treasure of happy times we had together as a family."

The family has asked for their privacy to be respected while they grieved.

Det Insp Adam Bridges, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: "Our thoughts remain with Liz's family and friends at this very difficult time.

"Our investigation continues and I would encourage anyone who spoke to Liz in the days before her death to please get in touch with us."

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