MANDEVILLE, Manchester — A post mortem has confirmed that entrepreneurs, Morris and Grace Richards whose lifeless bodies were found in their home on New Year's Eve died as a result of hanging, the Mandeville police say.

Police investigators suggested suicide as cause of death shortly after the bodies were found hanging in the elderly couple's Glenwood Close home, off Woodlawn Road in Mandeville.

However, shocked and grieving relatives and friends initially cast doubt on the suicide theory.

Reports have suggested that the Richards were experiencing serious financial difficulties prior to the time of their death.

Manchester Chamber of Commerce President Wendy Freckleton who recently expressed her condolences, told the Jamaica Observer that business people who found themselves in difficulties could consult with her organisation.

"I will just urge the members of the business community who are faced with challenges to come forward to the chamber. We can start discussions on solutions to the financial and economic crisis we now face as a country," Freckleton said.