A woman, 53, has appeared in court charged with the murder of her ex-partner, as a man, 33, and a woman, 29, have also been charged over the killing. 

Helen Shakespeare is accused of stabbing Raymond Groves, 48, to death at her home in Easterton, Wiltshire — and of conspiring with others to commit murder. 

She appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court on Saturday, wearing a grey tracksuit, and spoke only to confirm her name, age and address during the brief hearing. 

Prosecutor Kate Prince told magistrates that Shakespeare 'has stabbed her ex-partner at her home address, which has resulted in his death'.

Mr Groves, from Bristol, died of stab wounds, the court was told.

She was remanded in custody and will appear before Winchester Crown Court on Tuesday, July 9.

A 33-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman have also been charged in connection with the death of Raymond Groves.  

Anthony Hodges-Hillier, 33, of Brooklands, Royal Wootton Bassett, has been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

Letishia Goodwin, 29, of Strawberry Fields, Easterton has also been charged with conspiracy to commit murder.

They have both been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Swindon Magistrates Court on Monday, July 8. 

Emergency services rushed to a property in Strawberry Fields — a new build housing estate in the tiny village — shortly after 8pm last Tuesday.

A man was found with stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene, police said previously.

DI Deb Hatch said: 'I'd like to send my condolences to the family and friends of the man involved. Our investigation remains ongoing.'