A man accused of murdering the niece of comedy legend Tommy Cooper is expected to face trial next year.

Tony King has been charged over the death of Sabrina Cooper, who was found covered in blood in the hallway of her flat.

The 68-year-old grandmother was found dead after police were called to an address in Eastbourne at 6.45pm on Sunday over concerns for the welfare of a woman.

King, of Cornfield Terrace, was arrested the following day.

At a provisional hearing at Lewes Crown Court today, the 59-year-old was told a five-day trial was fixed for June next year.

Sabrina ran Cooper's Magic Shops in Eastbourne, the family business set up by her dad, Tommy’s brother David.

She was described by neighbours as a lovely woman.

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.

“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.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting Operation Dorsal.