Man back in court charged with murder of 'beautiful and caring' mother and daughter

Police stand guard outside the home in Chirnside. And, inset, Megan Hughes.
Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 19th Feb 2025
Last updated 19th Feb 2025

A man's made a second appearance in court charged with the murder of a 31-year-old woman in the Scottish Borders.

Megan Hughes - described as a "beautiful and caring" mother and daughter - was pronounced dead after police were called to an address in Chirnside in the early hours of Sunday, February 11th.

They had been responding to a report someone had been seriously injured at a property there.

A home in Windram Road - which neighbours a children's playpark - was taped off, as officers examined the scene.

Police are pictured at the front and rear of the property on Windram Road.

Corey Dryden made an initial appearance at Jedburgh Sheriff Court last week after being arrested in connection with Megan's death.

He made no plea to the charge when he reappeared in private at Selkirk Sheriff Court today (Wednesday).

The 31-year-old, who gave an address in Berwickshire, has been fully committed for trial and remanded in custody.

At about 3.45am, on February 9th, 2025, Dryden was observed by a police officer on the A6105. During a brief conversation, he made no mention of what he had done. It wasn’t until 4.34am, two and a quarter hours after the incident, that he telephoned the emergency services.

The date of his next court appearance is to be confirmed.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Megan's family said they have been absolutely devastated by her loss, which has "left a massive hole" in their lives.

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