A 52 year old man is due to appear at a special court sitting this morning - charged in connection with the murder of Ann Nancy Smyth in Kilkenny in 1987.

The 79 year old widow was found dead in her home by fire services - who were called to a blaze on Wolfe Tone street in the town - almost 30 years ago.

Gardaí in Kilkenny arrested a man last night and charged him with her murder.

Ms Smyth's death is understood to be one of those examined in recent years by the Garda cold case unit.

The arrested man is due to appear at a special sitting of Kilkenny District court this morning.