A DOUBLE inquest on an ex-police officer, whose body was discovered on a Biggin Hill farm and whose partner was found strangled at her home, has opened.

Anthony Bellchambers, 57, a former police officer and convicted killer, was found dead in his fume-filled car on Foal Farm Animal Rescue Centre, in Jail Lane, at 9.05am on January 16.

His partner, mother-of-two Linda Dolan, 36, was found dead at her home, in Hermitage Road, Norwood, four hours earlier.

Pathologist Dr Robert Chapman told an inquest at Croydon Coroner's Court on January 21 Mrs Dolan died from a ligature tied around her neck.

Mr Bellchambers, whom she had been living with, died from carbon monoxide poisoning in his car.

Detective Inspector David Ainscough, of the serious crime group, said no other people were believed to be involved and there were no signs of a struggle at Mrs Dolan's home. Both hearings have been adjourned pending further inquiries.

Mr Bellchambers is thought to have been a regular caller at Foal Farm.

Police are treating Mrs Dolan's death as murder. Call New Scotland Yard on 020 8247 4567.

January 28, 2003 11:30