Man appears in court charged with murder of woman in Galashiels

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a grandmother in the Scottish Borders.

Police Scotland said officers were alerted to a woman's death at a property in Galashiels' Wood Street at around 3.05am on Monday.

Margaret Maude Hanson, 84, was pronounced dead at the scene.

John Hanson, 84, was arrested and charged in connection with her death.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Ms Hanson's family said: "We are devastated at the loss of our mum and gran.

"Margaret will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

"We would ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time."

Defendant Hanson appeared before Selkirk Sheriff Court on Tuesday, where he made no plea to the single murder charge.

The accused, of Galashiels, was remanded in custody and is due back in the dock within the next eight days.

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Detective Inspector Debbie Duncan said: "Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Margaret who are being supported by specialist officers.

"We would again ask that their privacy is respected at this time."

(c) Sky News 2024: Man appears in court charged with murder of woman in Galashiels