A man who lives in sheltered accommodation and is suspected of murdering a neighbour has appeared in court.

Stephen Patrick Ansbro is accused of killing Jane Collinson at the complex they both lived at in Barnard Castle.

Ms Collinson, 59, was found dead at Bowes Lyon House in Dunelm Court at teatime on Saturday.

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The Northern Echo: Police were still at the scene on Wednesday Police were still at the scene on Wednesday (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Emergency services were called at around 6pm but Ms Collinson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Ansbro, 60, was arrested and after he was interviewed by detectives was charged with her murder.

He appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday morning and sat in the dock in a wheelchair.

No plea was entered during the short court hearing.

Ansbro was remanded into custody and will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, March 10.

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Durham Constabulary has said Ms Collinson's family is being supported by specialist officers and has asked for privacy at this difficult time.

Bowes-Lyon House provides supported housing for people aged 55 and older and is made up of 28 one and two-bedroom flats.

A spokesman for Home Group, which operates the facility, said: “This is a terrible incident and we are supporting our customers at this time.”