A MAN has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 50-year-old mother.

Paul Alan Smart, 49, of Eddleston Walk, did not enter a plea when charged with the murder of Angela Smeaton at Hartlepool Magistrates Court today (Wednesday, April 16).

Mr Smart, who lived at the same address as Ms Smeaton, spoke only to confirm his age, address and date of birth.

He was remanded in custody and will appear at Teesside Crown Court in Middlesbrough tomorrow for a bail hearing.

Ms Smeaton, who owned Ange’s Chippy on Owton Manor Lane in the town and was mother to Anthony who is in his 20s, was pronounced dead at her home.

It has emerged that Ms Smeaton had been stabbed.