Woman in court over man's Christmas Day murder

Louis Price, a keen fisherman, was loved dearly, his family has said

A woman has appeared in court charged with murdering a father-of-six on Christmas Day.

Kirsty Carless, 33, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday accused of murdering Louis Price in Norton Canes, Staffordshire.

Mr Price, 31, was found suffering a cardiac arrest at a property on Elm Road at about 03:30 GMT on Wednesday and was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Ms Carless, who appeared at the hearing via video link from HMP Foston Hall, is due to appear at Stafford Crown Court on 31 January to enter a plea.

Judge Michael Chambers KC told the defendant, of Haling Way in Cannock, she must appear in person at the plea and trial preparation hearing at Stafford.

Wearing a grey T-shirt, she spoke only to confirm she could hear the proceedings.

She was remanded in custody ahead of the hearing in January.

Michelle Heeley KC, defending Ms Carless, said there would be no application for bail.

A provisional date for a trial was set for 2 June at Stafford Crown Court.

Mr Price's family has described him as a "well-known member of the community" who was "well-loved".

"He always had time for anyone and would help anyone he could," relatives said.

Mr Price was also a "devoted fisherman" who regularly went on trips with friends and family, a statement added.