A NEIGHBOUR has paid tribute to a couple who were found dead at a property in Rowledge on Monday.

The couple were named locally as Ron and Gwen Gold, and it is believed by neighbours that Mr Gold shot his wife and their dogs before turning the gun on himself.

Surrey Police confirmed they were called to the Rowledge property at 12.40pm where they “sadly found the bodies of a couple in their 80s”.

“The couple had injuries consistent with gunshot wounds,” a police spokesperson said.

It was also confirmed “a weapon” was recovered from the scene.

A neighbour, who asked to remain anonymous, said the news had come as a “surprise to us all”.

The neighbour told the Herald: “The couple were very nice people who couldn’t do enough for you. Good friends are gone.”

The Herald understands Mr and Mrs Gold had lived in the Rosemary Lane property for around 50 years and were parents to two daughters. They also had “two little dogs”, according to the neighbour.

The police spokesperson confirmed two dogs with “apparent gunshot injuries” were also found at the premises.

The neighbour said before the couple’s retirement Mr Gold had worked as a postman, before opening his own business fixing lawn mowers.

The police spokesman added: “We believe it to be an isolated incident with no third-party involvement.

“The coroner has been informed and post-mortem examinations will be carried out in due course.”

The couple’s next of kin have been informed, he said, and there continues to be a “substantial” police presence at the location, and in the wider area.

Surrey Police’s spokesperson added: “We are grateful for the patience and understanding from nearby residents as officers carry out our investigation.

“We are offering our full support to the family, and the local community following this tragic event.”

* Surrey Police were also called to a property in Churt last Saturday (August 3) following the “untimely” death of a man.

In reports, the man was named as 47-year-old Gareth Rees. He was reportedly found drowned in a swimming pool after suffering a heart attack.

A Surrey Police spokesman said officers were called by South East Coast Ambulance service to the Churt property shortly before 4pm.

He added: “A report is being prepared for the coroner. However, at this time there is not believed to be any third party involvement.”