Police were called to an incident involving the victim of a fatal stabbing and her husband the night before she was killed, it has emerged.

Norwich Evening News: Frances Hubbard PHOTO: Paul Hewitt, ArchantFrances Hubbard PHOTO: Paul Hewitt, Archant

Armed officers were called to Churchill Place in Brooke at about 10.30am on Sunday, September 23 to reports of a stabbing. However, it has since emerged that police were also called there on Saturday, September 22 – the day before the murder of Frances Hubbard – in relation to an incident involving some of the residents, including Mrs Hubbard and her husband Michael.

Mr Hubbard, who is in his 80s, has subsequently been arrested in connection with the murder.

A spokesman said: 'Police attended a property in Churchill Place on Saturday 22 September 2018 and spoke with some of the residents, including the victim and suspect. It was subsequently established to be a non-policing matter.

'It is therefore not believed at this stage to be linked to the incident on Sunday.

Norwich Evening News: Floral tributes left at scene outside property in Brooke where Frances Hubbard was stabbed. Picture: Pete WalshFloral tributes left at scene outside property in Brooke where Frances Hubbard was stabbed. Picture: Pete Walsh (Image: Archant)

'As a result of this previous contact the matter was referred to our Professional Standards Department and following an initial assessment the matter has not been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).'

An 83-year-old neighbour, who did not want to be named, was in at the time police were called on the Saturday.

He said he and his wife had been out to Hemsby and returned at about 5.30pm when a policewoman appeared with a piece of paper.

He said she came back 'with the pair next door' and could see Frances was shouting and 'really upset' while Mr Hubbard 'had his head down'.

Norwich Evening News: Forensic van on scene at Brooke murder. PIC: Peter Walsh.Forensic van on scene at Brooke murder. PIC: Peter Walsh. (Image: Archant)

He said: 'She was shouting. Frances was really upset and crying – she was upset and throwing her arms about.'

He said the policewoman went into their home for about an hour before leaving.

The witness could not say much about events the following day as they were in bed.

Mr Hubbard, who was arrested in connection with the murder, has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

But he has been detained under the Mental Health Act following a mental health assessment.

Meanwhile, floral tributes have been left on the front garden of the bungalow where the victim lived, including one which has a note which reads 'Be at peace dear Frances X'.