Man denies rape and murder of 81-year-old woman in Helston
Edward Holden, 36, from Penzance, is accused of killing 81-year-old Jenny Firth in May
A 36-year-old man has denied the rape and murder of an 81-year-old woman in Helston.
Jenny Firth, 81, who was a retired postal worker died in an incident at a bungalow in the village of Ashton on 29 May.
Edward Holden, of Alexandra Place, Penzance, Cornwall, appeared at Truro Crown Court via video link on Tuesday (21 May) where he pleaded not guilty to murder as well as rape charges.
In a statement issued after her death Jenny's family said: "“Our family is utterly devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of our beautiful mum and granny."
“She was an incredibly fun-loving, mischievous and charismatic lady who brought great joy into the lives of everyone who knew her."
“Jenny dedicated herself to her family and her community, having served them as the village post lady for over 25 years."
“Jenny loved Cornwall, her home, her garden and Ashton village where she had lived for more than 60 years, and the village in turn loved her back."
“Her death has had a profound and far-reaching impact on an entire community."
“We refuse to let her death overshadow the beautiful life she lived. We are fully determined to focus on her legacy and honour her through a lifetime of joyful, positive memories."
“She was an elderly and vulnerable lady, and we are utterly heartbroken by her death."
“We kindly ask that our privacy, and that of the local community, is respected to allow us to grieve our loss.”
Holden has been remanded into custody and a trial date has been set for 23 November.