The daughters of a Kent couple were stabbed to death in a park after a socially distanced birthday.

The bodies of sisters Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry - aged 27 and 46 - were discovered in Fryent Country Park in Brent, London, just before 1.10pm on Sunday.

Parents Chris and Wilhelmina Smallman, from Ramsgate, are receiving support from specially trained police.

Retired Wilhelmina, known as Mina, was the first woman from a minority ethnic background to have become an Archdeacon in the Anglican church.

The 63-year-old has been sent messages of support from former colleagues in Essex.

Acting bishop of Chelmsford Revd Peter Hill said: "We are devastated to hear of the tragic deaths of Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry in North London at the weekend.

"Nicole and Bibaa were the daughters of our former Archdeacon and good friend Mina Smallman.

"This is heartbreaking news and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at Chelmsford Diocese are with Mina and her family.

"We ask that their privacy is respected and for everyone’s prayers at this most difficult of times."

Nicole and Bibaa, who lived in Harrow and Brent respectively, were part of a group of people that congregated in the park after 7pm on Friday, June 5, to celebrate the older sister's birthday.

Police say the pair were the only ones who remained at the park at midnight.

They were reported missing late on Saturday, after failing to return home.

Murder detectives are now trying to work out who carried out the brutal attack.

DCI Simon Harding said: “Both of these women were stabbed multiple times and we are working tirelessly to find who is responsible.

“Their families have been devastated by their loss and they need and deserve answers."

An extensive crime scene is still in place in the park.

However, there have been no arrests.

DCI Harding is urging anyone with information about the attack to call police on 020 8721 4205 or Crimestoppers 0800 555111.

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