Teenagers charged after Pakefield death of Joy Middleditch

Joy Middleditch died after two masked raiders are said to have entered her home in Grayson Avenue in Pakefield, Lowestoft.

She was found by her son lying on the floor of her bungalow in Grayson Avenue in a life-threatening condition in March 2023. 

Mrs Middleditch was taken to the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston and died there two days after being found.

Floral tributes left for Joy Middleditch (Image: Denise Bradley)The two masked males are said to have broken into Mrs Middleditch's home at some point overnight between Friday, March 24, and Saturday, March 25 a year ago.

An orange handbag containing her purse and keys was taken.

On March 31 2023, two teenage boys, aged 14 and 15, were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Suffolk police have now confirmed they have both been charged with robbery and burglary with intent to steal.

Police at the scene following Joy Middleditch's death in Pakefield, Lowestoft (Image: Denise Bradley)A statement said: "On 31 March last year two teenagers, aged 15 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of murder and taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

"The pair, now aged 16 and 15, were subsequently released on bail, pending further enquiries, both were charged last week.

"The boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have been charged with robbery and burglary with intent to steal. They are due to appear at Norwich Youth Court on 10 June."

Floral tributes left for Joy Middleditch (Image: Sam Russell/ PA)The charges come after an inquest into Mrs Middleditch's death was briefly opened today before being adjourned until July 1.

The inquest heard that Mrs Middleditch's son had discovered his mother lying on the floor of her living room on March 25.

In a statement issued after Mrs Middleditch's death, her family had said: “Joy was a strong, determined character who loved life and her dog.

“She was a loving person who was sadly taken from us too soon."