Woman charged with knifing ex-partner to death in small village murder conspiracy

A woman has been charged with knifing her ex-partner to death in her home in a small West Country village.

Two other people have also been charged in court in connection with the murder.

Helen Shakespeare, 53, is accused of stabbing Raymond Groves, 48, to death at her home in Easterton, Wiltshire, and also of conspiring with others to commit murder.

Shakespeare appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Saturday, speaking only to confirm her name, age and address.

Prosecutor Kate Prince said she "stabbed her ex-partner at her home address, which has resulted in his death".

Mr Groves, from Bristol, died of stab wounds, the court was told.

Shakespeare was remanded in custody and will appear before Winchester Crown Court on Tuesday, July 9.

A 33-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman have also been charged in connection with the death of Raymond Groves.

Anthony Hodges-Hillier, 33, of Brooklands, Royal Wootton Bassett, has been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

Letishia Goodwin, 29, of Strawberry Fields, Easterton, has also been charged with conspiracy to commit murder.

They have both been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Monday, July 8.

Emergency services were called to the address after 8pm last Tuesday.

Mr Groves was found with stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene.

Det Insp Deb Hatch said: "I'd like to send my condolences to the family and friends of the man involved. Our investigation remains ongoing."