A 54-YEAR-OLD man appeared before magistrates yesterday charged with the murder of his former wife.

Joseph Iley, of Emmerson Court, in Horden, east Durham, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address when he appeared at Peterlee Magistrates' Court.

Mr Iley had been charged with the murder of Margaret Iley, 57, at her home in Smillie Road, Horden, on Friday evening. No application for bail was made and magistrates remanded Mr Iley in custody to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Mrs Iley, who worked at the Walkers Snack Foods factory in Peterlee, died of stab wounds.

On the night of the incident, several neighbours tried to help Mrs Iley, but it is understood she died in a house next to hers at about 8pm.

A pet dog was also injured in the incident and is recovering after treatment.

Mrs Iley divorced her husband 14 years ago and leaves two children, David, 33, and Caroline, 31, and three grandchildren, whom she was devoted to.

A neighbour who has known Mrs Iley for 40 years described her as being very well-liked.

Mrs Iley's death has shocked the close-knit community, and neighbours paid tribute to the woman, who they said kept herself to herself, but always said hello to everyone she met.

A Walkers spokesman said yesterday: "We are all shocked and saddened to hear of Margaret's death.

"She was a popular member of our team and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with her family and friends, and we send them our heartfelt condolences."

An incident room is still operating at Peterlee police station, and a spokesman said yesterday: "It will be some considerable time before this inquiry is able to draw to a close ahead of a appearance before the crown court."