AN elderly man whose death in a care home sparked a murder investigation was a former welder and champion leek grower who was devoted to his family, it emerged this afternoon. 

The family of David Paterson, 81, released a statement through North Yorkshire Police following his death at Sowerby House care home in Sowerby, Thirsk, last week.

His body was found in his room on the afternoon on February 11.

An initial investigation had led police to believe the injuries he received were non-accidental.

The family statement said: "David lived in the Thirsk area all of his life and previously worked as a welder at Thircon in Thirsk for 30 years.  

"He was a devoted family man who adored his nieces and nephews.

He was devoted to his wife and cared for her when she became ill, up until her death in March 2014.

"They were a very private couple who idolised their family and enjoyed being a part of their local community.

"David enjoyed writing poetry and had some of his poems published.

"He was a champion leek grower and also enjoyed quizzes and board games, anything that challenged his mind.

"He was an active member of his local church and enjoyed bowling until his health deteriorated and he was no longer fit enough.

"We will remember David as a devoted husband and family man who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life."

A woman charged with Mr Paterson's murder made her first appearance in crown court this morning.

Heather Davidson, 53, of Sowerby Road, Sowerby, appeared at Teesside Crown Court via a video link from Low Newton Prison, in Durham.

The charge was not put to her and there was no application for bail by her barrister Tom Mitchell.

The Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Simon Bourne-Arton adjourned the case for a further preliminary hearing on March 6. A further plea hearing will take place on May 5.

Judge Bourne-Arton indicated that he could take the trial anytime from June 29 to the week commencing July 27.

He remanded the defendant in custody.