Norma Bell death: Hartlepool murder accused appears in court
A man has appeared in crown court charged with the murder of a foster mother whose body was found in the burnt out remains of her home.
Norma Bell, who cared for more than 50 children, died prior to a blaze at her home in Hartlepool on 2 April.
She had lived at her Westbourne Road home for 27 years and was due to celebrate her 80th birthday next month.
Gareth Dack, 32, appeared via videolink for a brief hearing at Teesside Crown Court. He made no plea.
Mr Dack, of Windermere Road, Hartlepool, was remanded in custody ahead of further hearing on 10 May.