FRIENDS of a woman who was found strangled have told of their shock at her girlfriend's arrest for murder.

Margaret Desmond, 50, was found dead at the couple's shared home on Hall Street, Hoyland at about 3.15am on Sunday.

Long-term partner Beverley McManus, 46, was arrested an hour later. She appeared in court on Tuesday, charged with her murder.

Market trader Brenda Gill had known the couple for over 20 years. She said the news had rocked the community to its core.

"Everybody around here knew them and just can't believe it. You couldn't have met two nicer women," said Brenda, 72.

Barnsley Magistrates referred the case to Sheffield Crown Court. McManus will appear there next Friday.