Damian Homer appears at court accused of murdering woman

Damian Homer, of Haresfield Close in Worcester, is accused of the murder of Wendy Francis and the attempted murder of Stacey Hill.

The 50-year-old had the first hearing of his case on Monday, (March 4), at Kidderminster Magistrates Court. That hearing was adjourned, with Homer then appearing at Warwick Crown Court today (Wednesday).

ACCUSED: Damian Homer (Image: Facebook)His Honour Judge Andrew Lockhart KC told the defendant the next hearing of the case would take place at Worcester Crown Court on April 2 - when Homer could potentially enter a plea. 

A date for a trial (if required) was also set starting on August 27.

TRIBUTES: Tributes have been paid to Wendy Francis (Image: West Mercia Police)

The charges are in relation to the death of Wendy Francis at an address in Haresfield Close, Warndon, Worcester, on Saturday night (March 2).

A second woman, aged 38, was taken to hospital in the incident. Her condition has been described by West Mercia Police as "now stable, and she continues to receive medical treatment".

TRIBUTES: Flowers have been laid for Wendy Francis in Haresfield Close in Warndon (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

In a statement, Wendy’s family said: “Wendy will be hugely missed; she was one in a million and much-loved.”

Detective Chief Inspector Leighton Harding of the Murder Investigation Unit said: "I understand that incidents of this nature can be alarming, but I would like to reassure the local community that this was an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public.

"You will notice a higher police presence in the area in the coming days as officers investigate this incident.

"Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who has sadly lost her life."

Flowers have been left outside the home in Haresfield Close in tribute to Wendy.