West Chiltington man accused of wife's murder
A man has appeared in court charged with murdering his wife, whose body was found at their home in West Sussex.
William Thomas Allen, 66, is accused of the murder of 64-year-old Linda Allen at the property in Nyetimber Copse, West Chiltington.
Mrs Allen was found in bed by emergency services who were called to the house on Thursday.
Mr Allen was remanded in custody by Crawley magistrates to appear at Lewes Crown Court on 15 June.
The results of a post-mortem examination revealed Mrs Allen died from head injuries and stab wounds to the chest.
She was described by her brother as a "wonderful and caring sister".
John Colvin said: "She was an unassuming and gentle lady who loved animals, particularly wild animals in their natural habitat. This fitted well with her other love of her garden.
"Linda and Bill were a very private couple, who only wanted peace and tranquillity.
"Any unexpected death is a shock, but especially one in such difficult circumstances.
"Linda's family would therefore ask that you respect their need to grieve in the privacy which she so valued herself."