A 24-YEAR-OLD man has appeared in court today charged with the murder of a Dawlish woman.
Bradley Huggins, from Plymouth, is accused of murdering 53-year-old Hazel Huggins at a terraced house in Ilbert Street in the city.
He appeared at Plymouth Crown Court this morning via a videolink from Exeter Prison and was remanded in custody.
Mr Huggins is due to appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing in August and a trial date has been set for January 2024.
Prayers are being said for Mrs Huggins tonight at the Hope Church in Dawlish where she was a member of its leadership team.
She has been described as a ‘much-loved’ member of the congregation.
Mark Jones, church leader, said: ‘The church has been devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of a much-loved member of the congregation.
‘We are supporting her family during this heart-breaking time and would ask that they are left in peace as they attempt to deal with their grief.’
Tributes were paid of Hazel yesterday at the Dawlish church, reflecting her ‘enormous contribution’ to the church and wider community.
A Service of Lamentation is being held at church in Swift Road at 7pm tonight to provide a ‘time of reflection and prayer’.
Prayers were also said on Sunday, the day after she was found dead.
Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Rosie Dawson said: ‘We are incredibly saddened by the tragic loss of Hazel Huggins.
‘She was a beautifully nurturing, positive and compassionate light in our community, particularly at Hope Church.
‘Our thoughts are with her family, friends and church community.’