A 36-year-old Bradford man accused of murdering his wife will apply to a crown Court judge for bail tomorrow.

Sadavat Ali today made his first appearance before Bradford magistrates in connection with the death of his wife at the family home in Thorn Street, Girlington, Bradford, on Monday.

During a brief two-minute hearing Ali’s case was committed to Bradford Crown Court.

The magistrates were told Ali was facing a charge of murdering Abida Bi on Monday, September 20.

Prosecutor Lisa Beadle said the case had to be sent to crown court and the defendant had to be remanded in custody. She said it had been agreed that a preliminary hearing would take place there today.

Ali’s solicitor, Abdul Iftikhar, said there would be an application for bail at that hearing.

Chairman of the Bench Neil Walker told balding Ali, who was wearing a blue jumper over a white T-shirt, that an interpreter would be provided for him for today’s crown court hearing.

Flanked by two security officers in a secure dock at the magistrates court, Ali spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth and that he had understood the proceedings.

A number of his relatives sat in the public gallery during the brief hearing. Ali glanced across at them and raised a hand in acknowledgement as he was led from the dock.

Several officers from West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Inquiry Team were also in court.

Mrs Bi, was found at the end-terraced home she shared with her husband and their three young children after relatives called at the house on Monday evening. Ali was arrested at the scene. A post-mortem examination revealed she died of head injuries.

The murder investigation is being led by Detective Superintendent Chris Thompson.