Man remanded on murder charge

Attracta Harron was last seen walking to Mass

A 21-year-old student has appeared in court charged with the murder of a County Tyrone pensioner.

Trevor William Hamilton, 21, of Concess Road, Sion Mills, appeared at Omagh Magistrates Court on Sunday.

He is accused of killing Attracta Harron, from Strabane, who disappeared on 11 December 2003 while returning from Mass in Lifford, County Donegal.

The 65-year-old former librarian's body has never been found.

Mrs Harron's two sisters and a brother were in court for the brief hearing as were members of the accused's family.

A detective inspector told the court that when charged, Mr Hamilton made no reply.

In response to questions from defence solicitor Michael Fahy, the detective said that no body had been found but he was satisfied a murder had occurred.

Mr Hamilton was remanded in custody until 22 April.

A 53-year-old woman who was arrested in connection with the murder was released without charge on Saturday.