Former West Sussex teacher charged with murder

Blair Graham Alexander Marrows (45), was due to appear in court today (Monday, March 24) charged with killing mother-of-one Donna Coe (44).

A post-mortem examination revealed the maths teacher had died from multiple stab wounds.

Ms Coe's body was found lying at the foot of the stairs in her four-bedroom home in Dickins Lane, Petersfield in Hampshire, on Friday afternoon.

It is not yet known exactly when she died although she was known to have spoken to friends and relatives on the phone on Thursday.

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Chilton, who is leading the investigation, said the alarm had been raised by relatives who were concerned when they were unable to get Ms Coe to answer the door.

Neighbours believe the police were called when the victim's 14-year-old daughter, who had been staying with her father during the holidays, was unable to get in.

After the 999 call police arrived and broke down the door, to make the grisly discovery. DCI Chilton said Ms Coe was from a 'close-knit family.'

"It has obviously been quite devastating for them, particularly the young girl," he said. "She is very distressed and very upset."

A huge police operation was sparked by the discovery of Donna Coe's body.

A team of 40 officers is working on the case. Forensic teams worked

through Friday night examining the large, detached house for evidence, while other officers have conducted house-to-house inquiries.

Two cars, including Ms Coe's Renault Clio with a personalised number plate, were also removed from outside the house to be examined.