The victim, who officers believe is Joyce Cregeen, of Sefton Road, Epsom, Surrey, was discovered by a member of the public who visited her home at midday on Thursday.

An ambulance was called and paramedics contacted police immediately after arriving at the scene. A post-mortem examination at the Royal Surrey County Hospital revealed Mrs Cregeen died from multiple stab wounds to the torso.

Officers from Surrey Police's Major Crime Investigation Team are taking charge of the case. A detailed forensic search of the house is taking place and officers are also searching the area outside for anything that could be connected to the murder.

CCTV is being viewed by officers, who are also conducting house-to-house inquiries.

Detectives say they are keeping an open mind about the motive for the murder. At this stage there are no signs of forced entry to the house.

A police spokesman said the fatal injuries appear to have been caused by a knife and police are still searching for the murder weapon.

Extra officers from the Epsom & Ewell Safer Neighbourhood Team are in the area over the weekend to assist the investigation and speak to residents.

Detective Chief Inspector Jo Sidaway said: "We will leave no stone unturned to discover who is responsible for this vicious murder.

"The killer of a defenceless, elderly woman deserves no kudos or protection from anyone who knows what has happened."