A mother is believed to have been killed by her partner on a boat in the Norfolk Broads.

Annette Creegan, from Mitcham, was formally identified by officers today after her body was found in the River Bure on Sunday.

Police believe the 49-year-old was dead before entering the water, probably as the result of strangulation.

Her partner, John Didier, died as the result of drowning. His death is not thought to be suspicious.
Originally from Arkansas in the US, it is believed he lived with the victim and worked for the National Health Service.

Police launched a search for the bodies after finding the victim's 13-year-old daughter alone on a boat after a hire company alerted police that the vessel had not been returned.

It is thought the girl may have been unaware that either adult was dead when she was found on board on Saturday.

Julian Jones, neighbour of Mrs Creegan in Beechholme Avenue, said: “She was quiet. She lived with her daughter, by themselves, for the last 10 years. I have lived here for 15 years. She's known in the area.

The 21-year-old also spoke about John Didier, saying: “He had only recently moved in the last few months. I spoke to him for the first time a few months ago.

“It's crazy, you wouldn't have thought  it round here.”

One theory being looked at is Mr Didier killed Mrs Creegan before taking his own life several days later.

The bodies of the couple were found near each other in water near the boat on Sunday, which was moored in a secluded spot on the River Bure, near Wroxham.