Man charged with murder after fatal Wiltshire crash that claimed life of beloved pet shop owner

A man has appeared in court charged with murder following a fatal crash in Wiltshire that claimed the life of a much-loved pet shop owner.

Anthony Howells, 43, of no fixed abode, appeared before Swindon Magistrates' Court charged with murder, dangerous driving, driving without insurance, failing to stop after a collision and failing to provide a specimen. He was remanded in custody ahead of his next court appearance.

The charges relate to a collision on the B4696 between Brinkworth Road and Lydiard Plain at around 6.05pm on Tuesday. Barbara Mullaney, who was in her 70s, died at the scene after the orange Peugeot 107 she was driving was involved in a collision with a black Vauxhall Astra.

A teenage girl travelling in the Vauxhall Astra was taken to hospital following the crash but has since been discharged.

Barbara, who owned Animal Fayre pet shop in Cricklade, has been remembered by family, friends and customers as a kind and caring member of the community.

Her fiancé, Pat Maher, paid tribute to her, saying she was "a lovely lady, loved by many" who would always go out of her way to help others.

He described Barbara as someone who was always smiling and enjoyed gardening, walking and caring for her guinea pig, Worzel. The couple had been together for more than 40 years after becoming engaged in the 1980s.

Following news of her death, dozens of floral tributes and heartfelt messages were left outside her High Street pet shop, while St Sampson's Church in Cricklade also paid tribute to the well-known local business owner.

Wiltshire Police has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because of prior police contact before the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker described the charges as a significant development in the investigation and extended his condolences to Barbara's family and friends.

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the collision to come forward.

Anthony Howells is due to appear before Bristol Crown Court for a plea hearing.