Man In Court Over Woman's Dismembered Body

A man has appeared in court charged with murder after a woman's dismembered body was discovered in a flat in Pontypridd.

Christopher May, 50, made his first court appearance in front of magistrates in Merthyr Tydfil, speaking only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

He is accused of killing 47-year-old Tracey Woodford.

Ms Woodford, from the Pontypridd, was last seen by her family at about 12.45pm on Tuesday and was reported missing the following day.

Her body was discovered by a police officer in Andrews Court, Rickards Street, Graig, just before 3pm on Friday.

Her family have paid tribute to their loved one, saying in a statement: "Tracey was liked and loved by all of her family and friends.

"She was very kind-hearted and a selfless person who would go out of her way to help anyone.

"Tracey was a gentle person who would not hurt anyone and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her. We are thankful for all the support we have received to date.

"We ask all to respect our wishes for privacy and to be left alone to grieve at this very difficult time."

Police said Ms Woodford left the Skinny Dog Public House in Pontypridd with a man on Tuesday night.

South Wales police were waiting for the results of further forensic tests to determine the cause of Ms Woodford's death.

Officers are continuing their appeal for witnesses.

A force spokesman said: "In particular they would like to establish Tracey's movements during the days leading up to the discovery of her body on Friday, 24 April.

"They would like anybody who saw Tracey since she was last seen by family at 12.45pm on Tuesday, 21 April.

"In particular they want to hear from anyone who may have seen Tracey in the Skinny Dog public house, between 9pm and 11pm, on the day she went missing."

One woman who knew Ms Woodford told Sky News she was "petite, fragile, very nice person, wouldn't harm a fly".

"She'd give you her last on the street. You know, she didn't bother with anybody, kept herself to herself."

Another said: "She was just a lovely girl. Quiet, lovely, no harm to anybody, no harm at all."

May is scheduled to appear at crown court tomorrow.

:: Anyone with information is urged to call the force on 101 quoting reference 140670 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.