Man charged with murder of 40-year-old

A MAN has appeared in court accused of murdering a woman in Gloucestershire.

Joe Rankin, of Langtoft Road, Stroud, was charged with murdering 40-year-old Emma Potter on September 20 this year when he appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

The 33-year-old spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the fourminute hearing.

Defending, Chris Coleman said there was no indication yet as to how Rankin would plead, though he hoped that might be clearer by the time of his next court appearance.

Rankin was remanded in custody, pending the case being heard next at Bristol Crown Court tomorrow.

Gloucestershire Constabulary has said that Ms Potter was found dead by officers at her home in Chapel Street, Stroud, at around 4.15pm on Friday November 4, after concerns were raised by a neighbour.

The death was initially treated as unexplained but the results of a post-mortem examination led to a murder investigation being launched.