A 70-year-old woman has appeared in court accused of murdering her husband.

Retired LGBT rights worker Joanna Rowland-Stuart was charged with murdering Andrew Rowland-Stuart in a flat in Brighton.

Rowland-Stuart confirmed her name through a sign language interpreter, as she is deaf, at Crawley Magistrates’ Court today.

She is accused of murdering her husband Andrew, also 70, at the flat in Lavender Street.

Emergency services were called to the 15th-floor flat on Monday evening shortly after 7.30.

Mr Rowland-Stuart was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Argus: Andrew Rowland-Stuart was found dead at a flat in BrightonAndrew Rowland-Stuart was found dead at a flat in Brighton (Image: Sussex Police)

His wife was arrested and has since been charged with murder.

A large number of police cars and vans could be seen surrounding the block of flats and police officers were stationed outside the building.

Forensics team were also seen working in the area and carrying evidence bags.

Officers remained in the area until the next morning and assured residents the incident was an “isolated incident”.

Rowland-Stuart has worked for the Brighton and Hove LGBT Community Safety Forum and as a transgender rep with civil service LGBT group Proud.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “This is a fast-moving investigation and our enquiries are ongoing as we seek to establish the full circumstances which led to Andrew’s tragic death.

"Our thoughts remain with his loved ones at this difficult time.

The Argus: Multiple police cars could be seen outside the buildingMultiple police cars could be seen outside the building (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

“In the meantime, we are urging the public not to speculate, but to come forward with any information which may be able to assist us.

“You can report it online via the Major Incident Public Portal.”

People can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.

Rowland-Stuart was remanded in custody to appear again at a crown court next week.

An inquest into Mr Rowland-Stuart’s death will be opened by senior coroner Penelope Schofield at Horsham on Tuesday, June 4.