A man has been remanded in custody accused of the murder of his estranged wife.

John Butler, 62, made a 45-second appearance at Leeds Magistrates’ Court today when his case was sent to Leeds Crown Court.

He is charged with the murder of Pauline Butler, 61, who was found dead at Cherry Lea Court, Rawdon on Monday. She had suffered a number of stab wounds to her neck.

Butler of Larkfield Road, Rawdon was told by District Judge Roy Anderson he will have a hearing at the Crown Court tomorrow.

Murder cases now go to the crown court within 48 hours in case a bail application is made, which has to be before a judge.

Butler, wearing a blue jumper, spoke only to confirm his name and address.

Police found the body of Mrs Butler after an ambulance was called to Cherry Lea Court on Monday lunchtime. Detectives then said that investigations suggested she had died in a suspected “domestic-related incident.”