TEARS FOR MURDERED POSTIE ALEX
Man, 26, in court over death of 22-year-old
GRIEVING friends of a 22-year-old postal worker paid tribute to her yesterday as a man appeared in court charged with her murder.
Alex Stuart suffered facial injuries on Sunday morning in an incident at a house in Peebles. She
was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary but staff could not save her. Nicholas Rogers, 26, was remanded in custody yesterday at Selkirk Sheriff Court on charges of murder, assault and an offence under the Police and Fire Reform Act. He made no plea or declaration at the brief private hearing and is expected back in court next week. Police revealed earlier that a suspect had been arrested in a car park near a supermarket in Peebles. Alex, who is understood to work for Royal Mail, was found injured at a house in the Cuddyside area of the town. Police were called to the scene at around 11.20am after reports of an assault. Alex passed away on Sunday evening and pals told of their shock as news of the tragedy spread. One family friend said: “It’s just too much to take in right now. Everyone knew Alex and will miss her so much.
“Alex was a lovely girl. She was well-known around the town and was always the joker of the pack. She was always laughing and loved to party.
“Her mum Fiona is absolutely devastated, as are the rest of the family.”
Other friends paid tribute on social media. Phillip Holt wrote: “Words can’t describe how much I’ll miss you, little lady.
“You were such a caring and thoughtful person to me and my family. It truly was a pleasure to have known you.” Michael Jewitt said: “RIP Alex. Such a genuine and buzzing lassie, you’ll be sorely missed. Thoughts are with your family and pals.” And Lauren Quinn added: “Such tragic news. Can’t believe something this horrible could happen in our wee town.” Detective Inspector Stevie Bertram of Galashiels CID said: “We’re not currently looking for anyone else in connection with Alex’s death. “However, our inquiries continue and we’d urge anyone who may have information relevant to this investigation to get in touch.” Police would like to hear from anyone who was in Cuddyside on Sunday and saw anything that could help the inquiry. Specialist officers are supporting Alex’s family, who asked for space to grieve in private.