A man has appeared in court today charged with murdering a woman who was found dead earlier this week.

Wayne Bond appeared at Newcastle Magistrates today (Thursday) charged with the murder of 31-year-old Rebecca Simkin, from Stafford. He will next appear at Stafford Crown Court on Monday.

Ms Simkin's body was found at Eagle House - a property managed by Midland Heart which offers temporary accommodation for those who find themselves homeless between the ages of 18 and 64 - on Newport Road, Stafford, at around 10.30am on Monday.

STAFFORD COPYRIGHT NATIONAL WORLD PLC STEVE LEATH 31/05/24..Pic in Stafford, Newport Rd at Eagle House, a Midland Heart facility, scene of a death. Police tape can be seen at the back of the building..

Police at the scene on Newport Road on Thursday

On Thursday, a statement from Midland Heart said staff were supporting people living and working at the residence.

The housing association's spokesperson said: "On Monday morning we became aware of an issue in a tenant’s apartment at Eagle House.

"We immediately called the police and are supporting them as they investigate. Since then we have made sure additional support was made available to tenants and colleagues at Eagle House.

“We also send our thoughts and sympathies to the victim’s family and friends.”