Man appears in court charged with murder

A man has appeared at magistrates’ court in Taunton charged with murder following the death of a woman in Westonzoyland, Somerset.

At the hearing 62 year old Richard Breed, of no fixed abode, was remanded into custody by magistrates, this is pending an appearance at Bristol Crown Court tomorrow, he did not enter a plea.

The charge comes after officers were called to a home in Monmouth Close at 9.17am on Tuesday, by neighbours concerned for the welfare of the female occupant.

It is understood to be 87 year old Brenda Breed, though a formal identification is yet to take place.

Her family said: “There are no words to describe the pain and devastation which has rippled through our family, friends and the community from the loss of such a remarkable and much-loved woman.”

Our thoughts are with them and they continue to be supported by dedicated family liaison officers. They thank the community for their support and ask for their privacy to be respected.

Residents will still see an increased police presence as the Major Crime Investigation Team’s enquiries continue, and officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team will also be in the area offering help and support.

If you have any relevant information and have yet to speak with officers, please get in touch.