A British woman has been murdered in a robbery at her home in Mauritius while her son was in the house.

Janice Farman is believed to have been smothered with her pillow by thieves, who stole money and jewellery from her home, before escaping in her car.

The 47-year-old's body was found on her bed after police were called to the property in Albion in the early hours of Friday morning.

Ms Farman’s 10-year-old autistic son was also found in the property. He was being cared for by the island's Child Development Unit.

Police said they were hunting three suspects.

A police spokesman said officers "went to the property and found the woman lying in bed."

He added: "The suspects drove away in the victim's car. The car has been found. It will be examined and we hope we will get evidence from the vehicle."

A colleague of Ms Farman, who did not want to be named, said: "She is the most kind-hearted lady I have met in my life. She would never hesitate to offer her help as and when needed."

Ms Farman, who is thought to hail from Clydebank, Dunbartonshire, was managing director of PECS Data Services in Mauritius.

Stephen Littlechild, the company's group managing director said his colleague had been "brutally murdered in her own home."

He added: "In view of these tragic events, we have decided to close our Mauritius office today, so we can make sure all our team have access to counsellors and as a mark of respect to a wonderful lady.