Nailsea man in court over wife’s ‘murder’
Police in Brendon Gardens investigating the crime scene back in January. Picture: Mark Atherton - Credit: Mark Atherton
A Nailsea man accused of murdering his wife in their marital home will remain in prison for the next six months, a judge has ruled.
Andrew Tavener was remanded in custody today (Monday) after a brief appearance via video link at Bristol Crown Court.
Claire Tavener was found dead at their home in Brendon Gardens on January 8 and the 45-year-old is accused of killing her.
Police said during the early stages of their investigation she suffered a ‘violent attack’ and this week it was revealed the mother-of-two suffered multiple stab wounds.
Tavener was arrested by police that same morning at Nailsea & Backwell Railway Station but required several weeks of hospital treatment before being charged with her murder on Thursday.
Tavener spoke only to confirm his name, age and address when he appeared at North Somerset Courthouse on Friday and crown court this week. He is yet to enter a plea.
However, a prospective trial date has been set for the first week of August.
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No bail application has been made, meaning Tavener will remain behind bars until at least his trial date.
Claire’s family have spoken glowingly about the 27-year-old barmaid.
They said: “Claire was an amazing woman, full of life and love for her boys.
“She made us so proud to be her parents and brother.
“Her sense of humour and ability to focus on the important things meant she could cope with any situation with ease.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support and love shown since her tragic death, and would like to thank everyone for it.
“The pain of losing our beautiful girl so suddenly is unbearable but we now have to concentrate on the boys and would appreciate being given privacy and time to grieve.”
Police have praised the public for their assistance during their investigation.
An Avon and Somerset Constabulary spokesman said: “Claire was found dead at a house on Brendon Gardens in Nailsea on January 8.
“A post-mortem examination confirmed she died from multiple stab wounds.
“We’d like to thank the public for their support during this investigation.”