Villagers living in fear after brutal murder of 83-year-old dog walker in woodland near East Harling

Worried villagers revealed they were living in fear following the brutal murder of an elderly dog walker in woodland near their homes as the killer remained on the loose.

Norfolk Constabulary confirmed a murder hunt has been launched after the 83-year-old father-of-two – who has not yet been named – suffered multiple stab wounds to his neck and head in woodland near East Harling.

A member of the public raised the alarm after the body of the pensioner, who hails from the local area, was discovered in woodland near the Fiveways Junction on Saturday, at around 10.45am.

MORE: Dog walker, 83, stabbed multiple times in neck and head in brutal murder in woodland near to East Harling

Police revealed they were unclear about the motive behind the attack, describing it as 'out of the ordinary'. However, they have increased patrols in the area in an effort to reassure the public.

East Harling Parish Council vice-chairman Elizabeth Mould, who revealed the woods were popular with dog walkers, said: 'I was there last Friday on my own and there are quite a few ladies who go on their own. It's very unusual and scary what's happened.'

MORE: Police still on scene at woodland near East Harling after murder inquiry launched

Councillor Colin Forder said details of the attack were scarce. He added: 'I have two children and we often take the dog for a walk in the woods so it's worrying.'