A woman will face trial next year over the alleged murder of her parents, with police investigating fears their bodies were mummified.

Virginia McCullough, 35, appeared before Basildon Crown Court, by prison video link, charged with the murders of John and Lois McCullough, who were both in their 70s.

The defendant, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, Essex, is accused of killing the pair in Chelmsford between August 21, 2018, and September 15, 2023.

She was not asked to enter pleas to the two murder charges during a brief court hearing on Tuesday (September 19).

Forensic experts are reportedly looking into the possibility Mr and Mrs McCullough were wrapped in a protective material in a bid to preserve the bodies.

Bodies were seen being removed from the terraced property on Sunday, according to The Sun.

Ms McCullough, who wore a grey prison-issue tracksuit and had a blonde bob haircut during Tuesday’s court appearance, spoke only to confirm her identity from a booth at HMP Peterborough.

Judge Samantha Leigh remanded her in custody until a plea hearing on December 1, with a provisional trial date set from May 13 next year at Chelmsford Crown Court with a time estimate of two weeks.

No application for bail was made.

Essex Police said it received reports of concern for the well-being of two people aged in their 70s on September 13.

The force said it launched an investigation and detectives later found human remains at an address in Pump Hill, Chelmsford.

Detective Superintenden Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said on Monday (September 18): “This continues to be an incredibly complex investigation.

“Our work will continue throughout the coming days as our specialist officers and staff continue to piece together all elements of this matter.

“Officers will carry out work at addresses in Pump Hill throughout the coming days. I would continue to urge against speculation as these inquiries continue. A family is grieving the loss of two relatives and officers are supporting them.”

The family of Mr and Mrs McCullough said in a statement released through police: “We are deeply shocked by their deaths and ask for privacy at this difficult time.”

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