A NORTH Yorkshire-based soldier has appeared in court accused of murdering the mother of his four-year-old son.

Ian Lowe, 24, who is based at Catterick Garrison, spoke only to confirm his name and address at the brief hearing at Tameside Magistrates Court in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester.

Lowe, of the 1st Battalion the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, is charged with the murder of Leanne McNuff, 24, on Sunday at her home in Droylsden, Greater Manchester.

Police were called to the house in Mellor Street at about 7.45pm by the ambulance service following reports a woman had been assaulted.

Miss McNuff was taken to hospital suffering multiple stab wounds and was pronounced dead a short time later.

Lowe, wearing a dark blue sweatshirt, was flanked by two prison officers in the dock and spoke to confirm his name and address.

Lynn Rogers, prosecuting, told the court the murder charge could only be dealt with at crown court.

Avril Saltsman, chair of the bench, remanded the defendant in custody to appear by video-link tomorrow at Manchester Crown Court.

Tributes to the victim described Miss McNuff as a beautiful, kind-hearted and generous girl.

Her parents Margaret and James added: "Leanne lived and breathed for her four-year-old son Jaden, who in turn idolised and adored his mummy."