AN 81-year-old retired Guardia Civil officer has been arrested on suspicion of murdering his wife, 80, in the family home.

She was found dead and lying in a pool of blood and her husband, who retired from the police force 30 years ago, was also suffering from injuries, according to the emergency services.

Family members called the police out to the couple's home in Zafra (Badajoz) saying 'something strange' was happening, although they did not define exactly what the circumstances were.

The exact cause of death is not known, but it is thought she may have been stabbed.

Her husband was taken to hospital for his injuries and remains in observation, but his life is not said to be in danger.