Man accused of house fire murder

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a woman who died in a fire at her house.

Sarah Jane Dudley, 33, became trapped in a bedroom after the fire started in the kitchen of her house in Bargate, Belper, Derbyshire, on 16 May.

It is believed she died from smoke inhalation. Her daughters, aged 14 and 12, were not at home at the time.

Anthony Frost, 46, of Park Road, Belper, was remanded into custody after appearing at Nottingham Crown Court.

He spoke only to confirm his name and there was no application for bail.

Mr Frost will next appear in court for a plea and directions hearing in September.