A Darlington man accused of murdering mum Leanne Park is set to appear before a judge accused of murder.
Andrew Bell, 44, is due to appear at Teesside Crown Court today, Tuesday, September 29, at 10am.
He is charged with the murder of 44-year-old Leanne, who worked at Ventress Hall care home in Darlington.
Leanne was found dead in a flat above The Greyhound pub on Parkgate after 999 crews were called at about 9.15pm on Wednesday, September 23.
Floral tributes at the scene (Image: Stuart Boulton)
Flowers and tributes continue to pile up outside the pub as police and crime scene investigators examine the scene.
Floral tributes at the scene (Image: Stuart Boulton)
Bell, from Parkgate in Darlington, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 28.
Speaking only to confirm his own details, he appeared in the dock wearing a grey tracksuit.
No pleas were entered during the short hearing.
Leanne Park was found dead above a Darlington pub (Image: DURHAM POLICE)
District Judge Steven Hood remanded him in custody until his next appearance at Teesside Crown Court.
A plea hearing has also been scheduled for October 26.
Crime scene investigators continue to examine the scene, while Durham Police said the cordon outside the pub will remain for “some time”.
Leanne’s death has brought a flood of tributes from family, friends, colleagues and the public.
Over the weekend, her family described her as the "best mam, nana, daughter and friend".
They said: “She was loved by everyone and would do anything for anyone.
“She was the life and soul of the party and loved to dance.
“We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family.
“We are grateful for all the kind messages and the support since her death. We ask that everyone remembers her for the kind-hearted woman she was.”
One tribute left outside The Greyhound reads: "Always in our hearts, taken too soon. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel."
Another said: "RIP our beautiful Auntie. You are so loved and going to be a huge miss, love you always."
Leanne’s colleagues at Ventress Hall care home said she would “do anything for anybody”.
In a Facebook post, the care home said: "I can't actually believe I am writing this, but it is with a heavy heart that I say we have lost our friend and work colleague, Leanne.
"Leanne was always so kind and would do anything for anybody, especially our residents.
"The world is beyond cruel and you have been taken too soon. We love you much Leanne.
"Love all your Ventress Work Family. You will never be forgotten. Our condolences to all Leanne's family."
READ MORE:
- Cordon to remain in place 'for some time' after mum 'murdered' above Darlington pub
- Family tribute to mum 'loved by everyone' who was 'murdered' above Darlington pub
- Darlington man, 44, appears in court charged with murder of 'kind-hearted' mum Leanne
- Nearly £10k raised for family of 'murdered' Darlington care worker Leanne Park
Family liaison officers are supporting Leanne’s family.
Durham Police said: “Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 521 of September 23.”
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.