A MAN accused of murdering a grandmother near a flat she owned made his first appearance before a judge today (Monday, May 13).

Lee Grainger is alleged to have beaten to death 80-year-old landlady Sybil Sibthorpe in Darlington last Wednesday.

Police said the pensioner was found with "significant" head injuries in the garden of the property in Haughton Road.

Mr Grainger, who is 41 today, of St George's Hall, Elmfield, Darlington, was one of three men arrested after the killing.

The other suspects - both local and aged 44 and 33 - were released without charge after being questioned by detectives.

Mrs Sibthorpe, a mother-of-two, is understood to be the landlady of the property where she died, an end-of-terrace.

Her husband, William, 77, described her as a loving wife, mother and grandmother who was loved by all who knew her.

Neighbour Nicola Morris, 25, said Mrs Sibthorpe was a "lovely quiet lady" who was out gardening in all weathers.

"I can't imagine what her husband is going through, they were so close. She was so quiet and timid," said the mother-of-three.

Mr Grainger was remanded in custody by Judge Simon Bourne-Arton, QC, after his brief appearance at Teesside Crown Court.

He did not enter a plea and will return to the court on July 26 for a plea and case management hearing.

A provisional trial date has been set for October 21.