Hartlepool foster mother Norma Bell death: Murder accused in court
A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a foster mother, whose body was found in the burnt remains of her home in Hartlepool.
Norma Bell, who cared for more than 50 children, died prior to a blaze at her home on Westbourne Road on 2 April.
She had lived at the house for 27 years and was due to celebrate her 80th birthday next month.
Gareth Dack, 32, made a brief appearance at Teesside Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody.
Mr Dack, of Windermere Road in Hartlepool, was arrested earlier this week.
No plea was entered and he is due back in court on 12 April.