THE TRIAL of a Newent woman charged with murder has been set for February 22, 2016.

Joanne Williams, aged 51, of Meek Road, Newent, is charged with the murder of 43 year old Marc Hastings of Hillcrest Road, Berry Hill, Coleford.

She appeared at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday, August 26, for a preliminary hearing where the date of the trial was set.

She is also due to appear again at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, November 30, when she will be asked to enter a plea and when further details of the case management will be discussed and decided.

Williams was arrested on August 12 when officers were called to her home at 10.40pm, where the body of Marc Hastings was found.

She remains in custody.