Eastbourne murder inquiry: Alleged victim was niece of Tommy Cooper

Sabrina Cooper, who was found dead at a property in Connaught Road in Eastbourne on Sunday, December 18, has been identified as a relative of the Welsh comic.

The comic, who died on stage of a heart attack in 1984, was the uncle of Sabrina, who was was named by police yesterday,

Tony King, 59, of Cornfield Terrace in Eastbourne, appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court today charged with the 68-year-old's murder.

Sabrina Cooper, who has been named in relation to a murder investigation in Eastbourne (Image: Sussex Police)

One coffee shop worker told The Sun: "I used to see her when I popped out for a break and we'd always have a chat.

"She was really friendly and well-known locally.

"I last saw her out walking her dogs the day before she died. I'm devastated."

Sabrina's father was Tommy's brother, David.

She previously ran a magic shop in Eastbourne but closed up in 2017 after competition from the internet.

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Police and forensic teams were pictured at the scene carrying out investigations earlier in the week.

A large police presence was previously seen at the property as the force continue to appeal for information.

Sussex Police, Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers said: “Our thoughts are with Sabrina's family and friends at this difficult time. We are supporting them and keeping them updated on the progress of this fast-moving investigation.

“We understand this incident will also cause upset and concern in the community, and I would like to reassure people that this is being treated as an isolated incident involving people known to each other, and with no threat to the wider public.

Comedian Tommy Cooper

“We have already completed extensive enquiries and this has resulted in a person being arrested and charged within 48 hours of police initially attending the address. Those enquiries will continue as the case progresses through the court, and we encourage anyone with concerns or information relating to what happened to get in touch with us.”

Information can be passed to police online or by calling 101 quoting Operation Dorsal. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.