Tributes have poured in for 82-year-old Sandra Squires, who was tragically stabbed to death in her home in Bright Ridge, Southborough, near Tunbridge Wells on August 31. Police were called to the scene at around 11 PM, where Sandra was pronounced dead.
Her grandson, who was also found at the scene with stab wounds, was taken to the hospital in serious condition. He was later arrested on suspicion of murder but passed away in hospital on September 3. Authorities have since confirmed that they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.
Sandra Squires was a much-loved and long-standing member of the Grove Bowling Club in Tunbridge Wells. A club spokesperson remembered her as an “enthusiastic bowler” who had been actively involved in the club since 2006, participating in matches and social events.
“We were very sorry to hear about the death of Sandra Squires,” the club’s statement read. “She and her husband, Bill, joined the Grove Bowling Club around 2006 and frequently played for the club in matches against other local teams. Sandra was a well-liked and respected member, and she will be dearly missed by everyone at the club.”
Her husband, Bill, passed away in 2013, but Sandra continued to be a part of the club for several more years, where she often helped with the club’s social activities, including preparing meals and serving behind the bar.
The tragedy has left the local community in shock. Neighbours and residents in Bright Ridge have expressed their sadness and disbelief at the incident. Kimberley Godsall, 41, a resident of Bright Ridge, commented, “It’s very sad for the family involved, you don’t want something like that to happen to anyone. It’s a very small community and it is not something you would expect to happen around here.”
Another resident, Len Fermor, 84, who has lived in the area for over 50 years, remarked on the peacefulness of the neighbourhood, saying, “It’s very sad to hear, and it’s usually such a quiet area. It’s not nice to go that way.”
Local police responded to the scene in large numbers, and officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are now assisting the coroner in an investigation into both deaths. A spokesperson confirmed that no one else is being sought in connection with the incident.
The community continues to mourn the loss of Sandra Squires, a cherished grandmother and valued member of the Grove Bowling Club, as they await the findings of the ongoing investigation.
