Swansea: Murder accused appears in court after car fire

Helen Clarke died in hospital following a car fire on Friday morning

An 80-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of his 77-year-old wife in a car fire.

Helen Clarke died in hospital on Sunday after emergency services were called to a fire on Sketty Lane, Swansea, at about 08:20 BST on Friday morning.

David Clarke was also taken to hospital, but in a stable condition.

He appeared at Swansea Crown Court and was remanded into custody until his next appearance in November.

Ms Clarke's family, who are being supported by specialist officers, said: "Our families are trying to come to terms with the tragic passing of a mother, grandmother, and friend in uncharacteristic circumstances.

"We request that we are given the privacy to deal with this tragedy as a family."

Police officers were called to Singleton Hospital in Swansea on Friday morning

Det Ch Insp Paul Raikes of South Wales Police said: "Our thoughts remain with Helen's family at this incredibly painful time.

"Detectives continue to work alongside other specialists to understand the full circumstances behind this incident."