Natalie Hemming murder: partner pleads not guilty
A man appeared in court today and denied murdering his partner Natalie Hemming, whose body lay undiscovered for almost a month in woodland.
Paul Hemming, 42, appeared via video link at Luton Crown Court.
Wearing a blue tee shirt, he spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea after being charged with the murder of Natalie, 31, some time between April 30 and May 4.
Natalie’s body was found at Toms Hill in Chandlers Cross, Hertfordshire, on May 22 after a huge police appeal to locate the missing mother.
The mum-of-three, who lived on Newton Leys estate near Bletchley, was last seen on May 1 after leaving her mother’s home in Hemel Hempstead.
She was reported missing by a family member two days later when she didn’t turn up for work.
Her car was spotted on CCTV in Aylesbury and was held in the town’s police station for forensic investigation.
Mark Fenhalls QC, prosecuting, told the court Paul Hemming’s case needed “further case management”.
Judge Michael Kay QC set the next hearing for late September and a trial date has been set for October 24.
The trial is due to last for three weeks.
Some of Natalie’s family were present at the five minute hearing, after which Hemming was remanded in custody.