The 27-year-old who was tonight charged with the murders of three elderly men in Exeter is a polo-playing former public schoolboy, it can be revealed.

Alexander Lewis-Ranwell, is to be put on trial over the deaths of twins, Dick and Roger Carter, 84, and Anthony Payne, 80, whose bodies were found in their homes earlier this week.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that they had charged Mr Lewis-Ranwell with the three murders along with two offences of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in custody and will appear in Exeter Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.

Mr Lewis-Ranwell, who grew up in Barnstaple, is a former pupil at the £30,000-a-year West Buckland boarding school, where he was known as a sporty and popular child.

A talented cricketer and hockey player, he left school after his A-levels and went travelling to Australia and New Zealand. He was also an avid polo player and horseman who had a passion for animals.