Murder case man remanded

A 44-year-old has been remanded in custody accused of the murder of a man who was found dead in a garden.

Richard Matthews is charged with murdering Paul Wells, 39, who was fatally stabbed in Edithmead Lane in Highbridge, Somerset, on June 25.

Matthews, of Edithmead Lane, did not attend the brief hearing at Bristol Crown Court.

James Ward, prosecuting, said Matthews was currently detained at a secure hospital under the Mental Health Act.

Charles Row, defending, did not apply for bail.

Judge Peter Blair QC, the Recorder of Bristol, fixed a plea and trial preparation hearing for September 25.

Following Mr Wells’ death his family paid tribute to him.

“Paul was a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, godfather, cousin and friend,” they said.

“Originally from Middlesbrough, Paul was very family-orientated, bighearted and a hard worker.

“Paul was taken from us suddenly all too soon and will be sorely missed by everyone.”