THE estranged husband of missing Highworth mother-of-four Linda Razzell has appeared before Swindon magistrates charged with her murder.

Glyn Razzell, 42, of Meadow Road, Swindon, appeared in court yesterday after being charged with murder on Thursday night.

Wearing a light blue shirt and black trousers Mr Razzell spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

He has consistently denied murdering the 41-year-old Swindon College worker, who vanished eight weeks ago.

It is believed that Linda, a part-time learning assistant at the college, had dropped off her children in Highworth, drove her normal route to work in Swindon and parked her red Ford Escort as usual in Alvescot Road, Old Walcot, on the day she vanished.

The only trace of her since has been the recovery of her mobile phone from an alley near where her car was found on March 19.

Mr Razzell sat motionless and appeared calm throughout the ten-minute hearing, moving only to nod in agreement when his defence solicitor, Anthony Nowogrodski, spoke on his behalf.

On leaving the dock he glanced briefly at the public gallery where Mrs Razzell's eldest daughter, Catherine, 14; brother, Graham Davies and cousin Julie Westmore were sat.

Mr Razzell was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, May 24, for a plea and directions hearing.

Linda is described as white, 5ft 2ins tall, slim, with dark, curly, shoulder length hair which she was wearing in a clip when last seen. She has blue eyes and a small scar on the bridge of her nose.

Anyone who knows about Linda's whereabouts is asked to contact police on Swindon 528111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.