THE wife of a dog walker who was found with fatal injuries in a country lane appeared in court last Friday charged with murder.

Christina Marina Button, 31, of St Mary's Drive, West Rainton, appeared at Peterlee magistrates court alongside her nephew, Simon David Tannahill, 20, who is also charged with murder.

During the five minute hearing, the pair spoke only to confirm their details and that they understood the charges.

Mr Tannahill, whose address was also given as St Mary's Drive, was wearing a cream jacket and white shirt.

He towered above Mrs Button, who was wearing a dark jacket.

No bail application was made and the pair were remanded in custody to appear at Newcastle Crown Court this Friday.

Mrs Button's husband George, 53, died on March 5, two days after being found in St Mark's Lane, West Rainton, with head injuries.