Bath woman's murder denied

Philip Alexander Jervois, of Lancaster Avenue, Dawley, pleaded not guilty to murdering Charlie Smith, pictured. He appeared through a video link at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

Jervois protested his innocence to Judge Frank Chapman during the 25-minute hearing today.

He is accused of murdering Miss Smith between February 9 and 12 this year.

An inquest has heard Miss Smith, 27, of Old Wharf, Malinslee, Telford, was found dead in a bath in a flat occupied by Jervois in Lancaster Avenue on February 11. A post mortem examination revealed the cause of death as ligature strangulation.

Judge Chapman adjou rned the case for trial on a date to be fixed. It is likely to be heard later this year in Stafford.

Jervois only spoke to confirm his name, to issue his formal not guilty plea and to protest his innocence to the judge before being further remanded in custody.

Through the video link from a prison where he is being held, Jervois told Judge Chapman: "I'm innocent, your honour."

Miss Smith's mother and two sisters were in court today. They broke down in tears as they left the courtroom.

Miss Smith leaves two young daughters aged six and three. More than 100 people packed out St Leonard's Church in Malinslee for her funeral.

A statement from Miss Smith's family at the time of her death said: "Charlie was a very special person who touched the hearts of everyone she came into contact with."

Floral tributes laid at her front door described her as a "fantastic mum".

Neighbours said Miss Smith, previously known as Karis Smith, had originally come from London and had lived in Brookside until she moved to Malinslee two to three years before her death.

Sue Roberts, Miss Smith's nextdoor neighbour, said at the time: "She was a good mum and a good neighbour."

Shortly after Miss Smith's death, a second 37-year-old man was arrested but was later released without charge.

By Kirsty Marston