A MAN was due to appear before magistrates on Wednesday (September 20) accused of murdering an elderly woman in her home in a Quantocks Hills village.

Beryl Purdy, known as Bez, aged 86, died in March as police responded to a 'burglary in progress report' in Broomfield.

Thirty-six-year-old David Parish, of no fixed address, has now been charged with her murder.

Parish, who was initially sectioned under the Mental Health Act, was charged following his release from a secure mental health unit on Tuesday (September 19).

Police major crime investigation team Det Insp Deb Hatch said: "This is a positive step in our investigation into the death of Beryl, known as Bez to her friends and family.

"Our thoughts remain with the family during this incredibly difficult time and they continue to be supported by specially trained a family liaison officer.

"We will continue to carry out our investigation and seek to provide the family with the justice they so rightly deserve.

"We hope this news will also be welcomed by the local community which we know Bez was a much-love member of."

Parish was appearing before magistrates in Taunton on Wednesday.