Great Yarmouth Woman Murdered In Thailand

15 September 2014, 11:34 | Updated: 15 September 2014, 15:28

A 23 year old woman from Great Yarmouth is among two British tourists who have been murdered on a beach in Thailand according to the Thai authorities.

The victim, along with a 24-year-old man who is from Jersey in the Channel Islands, were attacked on the popular small island of Koh Tao, which is known for its diving and lively bars.

A blood-stained hoe was found near the bodies and was thought to be the murder weapon.

Police colonel Prachum Ruangthong said: "The man was chopped in the back and on the side of his head, while the woman was chopped in her face.

"It's very gruesome."

Investigators were checking CCTV from local bars and restaurants and it was reported people were prevented from leaving the island.

The bodies were found 100 metres away from the scene of a beach party, according to a local report.

It is believed the attackers may have been waiting to target the pair as they walked off at the end of the party.

The Foreign Office said: "We are aware of the death of two British nationals on September 15 on the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand.

"The embassy are urgently seeking information from the local authorities and consular staff stand ready to provide assistance to friends and family at this tragic time."

According to the Lonely Planet travel guides, Koh Tao welcomes thousands of visitors who "come to worship the turquoise waters offshore". Its bright coral, sharks and rays bring in divers, hikers enjoy jungle walks and the bar scene "rages on until dawn".

Norfolk Police have referred all inquiries to the Foreign Office. A spokesman from there said not all family members have been informed and there are no plans to officially name the victims yet.