Trial date for woman accused of murdering church-going man, 88
ADATE has been set for the trial of a 29-year-old woman accused of murdering a pensioner and the attempted murder of three other people.
Zara Anne Radcliffe allegedly stabbed 88-year-old John Rees to death in a Co-op store in Penygraig, Rhondda, last Tuesday.
Yesterday, prosecutor Michael Jones told Cardiff Crown Court in a video hearing: “Ms Radcliffe faces four charges, that being the murder of Mr John Rees and three charges of attempted murder in relation to three others, Andrew Price, Gaynor Saurin and Lisa Way.”
Mr Jones said a trial date for Radcliffe – who appeared via video-link from prison and did not enter a plea – has been set for October 19 at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court.
Radcliffe, from Wyndham Street, Porth, was remanded in custody by Judge Paul Thomas QC.
Mr Rees lived in the nearby village of Trealaw with his wife Eunice.
In a statement after his death, his family said: “John was the very definition of a good man, extremely respected and liked in the community.
“He was proud of his family, proud to be a Welshman and devoted to All Saints Church. We will all miss him terribly.”
Other tributes were also paid to Mr Rees. Local Plaid Cymru councillor Joshua Davies tweeted: “My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of John Rees from Trealaw. Rest in Peace John.”
Floral tributes were left outside the convenience store and at All Saints Church.
One said: “Our hearts go out for John and his beloved wife Eunice and family. We are all heartbroken. Such a lovely, lovely gentleman, kind and caring, so so sad. God bless.
“Thanks for being the lovely man who has rang our church bells every Thursday night for the NHS. You will be very sadly missed by everyone.”
Another said: “Heartbreaking losing your life in such a horrific way. Can’t stop thinking of your poor wife x Thoughts are with you and your family.”
A neighbour of Mr Rees, Tracey Goodridge, said: “It’s just so sad and unbelievable. The church bells at the end of the street, he’d be there doing them. And couldn’t wait for the services to start back – he loved his church.”