A man accused of murdering his wife 15 years ago was granted bail when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court this morning.

Peter Heron, 70, is accused of murdering his wife Ann at their home on the outskirts of Darlington in 1990. Mrs Heron's throat was cut as she sunbathed on the hottest day of the year.

Mr Heron of Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, appeared at Teesside Crown Court this morning. He was granted bail to enable his defence team to prepare his case.

A condition of the bail is that he lives with his daughter in Yarm, Teesside.

His trial is due to take place next year.