Trial set for man accused of murdering mum of two
A TRIAL date has been set for the man accused of murdering a former RAF servicewoman.
Brian Manship is accused of killing mother of two Sarah Hassall, 38, in Pontypridd.
His case was listed for a preliminary hearing before Judge Eleri Rees at Cardiff Crown Court yesterday.
The 37-year-old, dressed in a grey top, appeared over video link and spoke to confirm his name, date of birth, address and nationality.
He confirmed his address as Llys Graig Y Wion, a row of terraced houses where Ms Hassall was found on Sunday.
During the short hearing, Manship was represented by John Ryan and James Wilson represented the prosecution.
Ms Hassall had previously served with both the RAF and the Royal Engineers for 14 years, and was living in Wales having grown up in Chelmsford, Essex.
In tribute, a family member said: “Her career was dominated by her commitment to mountain search and rescue – Sarah represented her units at both rock climbing competitions and competitive running.
“Sarah left the Army in 2010 to embark on, and excel at, even greater challenges, raising two young boys, Owain and Evan.
“Sarah was my best friend and touched many more lives along the way.
“We all now mourn her passing, grateful for the short time we had in her company.”
The defendant was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on January 17.
He has not yet entered a plea. A provisional trial date has been set for March 30 next year.