One of Britain’s richest men has been found stabbed to death at his home.

Millionaire hotelier Sir Richard Sutton, 83, and a woman were attacked in Higher Langham, Kent.

Sir Richard, 83, was declared dead at the scene and the woman – in her 60s – was taken to hospital.

She is in a critical condition.

A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder after a vehicle was stopped by the police.

The police said the victim and the man were known to each other.

The arrested man is thought to have visited a nearby grave before the attack.

The wounds to Sir Richard were so severe people arriving first at the scene thought he’d been shot.

Sir Richard was worth than £300 million, placing him 435th on The Sunday Times Rich List of the wealthiest people in Britain.

A statement from his company Sir Richard Sutton Ltd said:

“We are deeply saddened and devastated by the sudden death of Sir Richard Sutton, announced this morning.

“Sir Richard was a caring, generous and warm family man, who genuinely regarded those who worked for him as part of his extended family.

“Sir Richard was passionately devoted to both his company and its people, setting the highest standards for quality in the hotel, farming, and property interests within the group.

“His loss will be felt by everyone within the company, those who worked with him, and his family who have lost an incredible individual.

“Our thoughts are with the Sutton family at this tragic time.”

Detective Inspector Simon Huxter, said:

“We will be carrying out a full investigation to establish exactly what happened at the address in Higher Langham, and I would appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area on the evening of April 7 to please contact us.

“A cordon remains in place at the address and there will continue to be a heavy police presence in the vicinity as we carry out inquiries.

“Officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”