Further remand for Howell

The dentist, who is charged with the murder of his wife Lesley Howell and police officer Trevor Buchanan, appeared at North Antrim Magistrates' court via video link.

Howell (50), of Sea Road in Castlerock, is also charged with four counts of indecent assault on a female, and four counts of using chloroform with the intent of committing an indictable offence.

During Monday's short hearing, Howell, who was wearing a grey sweatshirt, spoke only once to confirm he understood the charges.

A preliminary enquiry date for the murder charges he faces, which was set for March 1, looks unlikely to go ahead.

Howell's solIcitor, Mr Harvey told the court that there was a large volume of papers to go through, and it was unlikely that he would be ready for March 1.

However, District Judge Richard Wilson ordered that the proposed date of the preliminary enquiry should remain in case papers are served on the defence earlier than February 22, when they are expected.

Back in January, it was revealed that a dental expert was preparing a report into the administration of medication relating to the indecent assault charged that Howell faces. Howell was remanded in custody, he will appear again on March 1, via video link.

Hazel Roberta Stewart, Howell's co accused, is due back before the court on March 1, when a preliminary enquiry will be heard.

The 46-year-old also faces two murder charges.