AN 82-year-old pensioner accused of murdering his wife at a Studley home has died in hospital whilst being remanded in prison.

Ronald Mowbray was charged with the murder of his 80-year-old wife Ann, who was found dead in a property on Allendale Crescent in February.

Following the murder, a post-mortem result concluded Mrs Mowbray died of multiple stab wounds.

The suspect, who was a prisoner at HMP Hewell, died at Alexandra Hospital on Wednesday, April 1.

Mr Mowbray, of Allendale Crescent, was set to appear at a plea and trial preparation hearing at Warwick Crown Court via a video link in March, but he was not fit to attend.

A hearing was held at the court to formally close the case following the death of the defendant on Monday, which involved a video conference link.

A prison service spokesperson said: “HMP Hewell prisoner Ronald Mowbray died in hospital on April 1 2020 and our condolences are with his family and friends.

“As with all deaths in custody, the prisons and probation ombudsman has been informed.”

Prison services also confirmed that Mr Mowbray’s death was not related to Covid-19.