Man in court over murder

A newly-wed appeared in court today charged with the attempted murder of his wife of a fortnight and killing a man she was visiting.

David Alan Slater is accused of murdering Kenneth Westwood, pictured, and attempting to kill Alison Slater outside Mr Westwood’s home in Monument Lane, Sedgley, on Sunday.

Slater, aged 55, of Sudeley Gardens, Milking Bank, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address during the hearing at Dudley Magistrates Court today.

Prosecutor Michael Taylor said: “The allegation is the defendant attempted to kill his wife of a fortnight and the person she was with.” There was no application for bail.

Neighbours and paramedics tried to save roofer Mr Westwood’s life when he was found collapsed in Monument Lane at around 2am. The 50-year-old was pronounced dead on arrival at Russells Hall Hospital.

Mrs Slater, also 50, underwent emergency surgery and was stable today.

Mr Westwood had lived in Monument Lane all his life and his family was today in a state of shock. A statement from them said: “Kenny was loveable. He would do anything for anybody and he didn’t deserve to die the way he did.” Magistrates remanded Slater in custody and listed his case for mention at Wolverhampton Crown Court on August 28. He is due to appear before that court on November 12.