A man appeared at Newcastle Crown Court today (Friday March 10) accused of killing a neighbour in a sheltered accommodation complex in Teesdale.

Stephen Patrick Ansbro is alleged to have murdered Jane Collinson at Bowes-Lyon House, where both were living, in Barnard Castle.

Ms Collinson, 59, was found dead at Bowes-Lyon House in late afternoon, last Saturday (March 4).

Emergency services were summoned but Ms Collinson was pronounced dead at the scene, at 6pm.

Read more: Man charged with murder following death of woman in Barnard Castle

The defendant was arrested and, following interview by detectives, was charged with Ms Collinson’s murder.

He subsequently appeared in a wheelchair in the dock at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, when the case was sent to the city’s crown court for a hearing today (Friday March 10).

The 60-year-old appeared for today’s “mention” in the case via video link from Durham Prison, where he is being held on remand.

Although the charge was not put to him at today’s hearing, Judge Paul Sloan, The Recorder of Newcastle, plus counsel for the Crown and defence agreed on a trial date.

It was given a fixture at the court, starting on Monday July 31, with a seven-day time estimate.

Read more: Stephen Ansbro accused of Jane Collinson murder in Barnard Castle

Following submissions, the court heard that the defence team is to seek preparation of a psychiatric report on the defendant and has instructed a psychiatrist.

Judge Sloan adjourned the case until a scheduled plea hearing, on Wednesday April 5.

It was agreed the prosecution must submit its evidence in the case by Thursday April 27, with a full defence statement to follow, by Thursday May 25.

Judge Sloan remanded the defendant to remain in custody until the plea hearing, when he will be allowed to once again appear via the prison to court video link.

Following Ms Collinson’s death, Durham Police said her family is being supported by specialist officers and has asked for privacy at such a difficult time for them.

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Bowes-Lyon House is described as providing supported housing for people aged 55 and older.

It comprises of 28 single and two-bedroom flats.

Earlier in the week, a spokesman for Home Group, which operates the facility, said: “This is a terrible incident and we are supporting our customers at this time.”