A COMPANY director killed his ex-fiancee at a luxury hotel used by England’s rugby team, a court heard.
Estate agent boss James Cartwright, 60, is charged with coercive control and the murder of Samantha Mickleburgh, 54, at the ivy-clad Pennyhill Park Hotel.
Cops were called to the lush retreat near Bagshot, Surrey, on April 14th after Cartwright notified medics about his ex being unconscious.
The pair met on a dating website in September 2022 before moving in together in March last year, it is said.
Guildford Magistrates' Court was told they stayed the night at the posh hotel in Bagshot, Surrey, for Cartwright's 60th birthday.
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Ms Mickleburgh was found naked, face up with a pool of blood present the following morning, it was said.
A post mortem found she had deep bruising to her neck and bruising to the base of her skull.
Cartwright, of no fixed abode, gripped his hands together tightly and spoke only to confirm his name, address and date if birth.
He appeared clean shaven while standing in the dock with medium-length curly hair and a brown barber-style jacket.
The defendant will next appear at Guildford Crown Court on Wednesday.
The 19th-century hotel is set in 120 acres of countryside and its 123 luxury rooms cost up to £1,200 a night.
England's rugby players stayed and trained there during the Six Nations.
It boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and spa facilities with indoor and outdoor pools.
The hotel is also home to the RFU's Centre of Athletic Development as well as being a training venue for the national squad.
Samantha's two children paid tribute in a moving statement, saying: "Nothing can prepare you to face the world without your parents at a young age.
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"Our mother had been both parents to us since the loss of our father and she was doing such an amazing job at it. No finer example of a Mum could there be, we will feel the loss in every aspect of our lives.
“We are grateful to be such a close family and for the support we continue to receive from those who knew Samantha."
While her family added: "We are devastated by the loss of Samantha, an incredible mother, beautiful, much cherished daughter, and friend.
“Loved by many, she was a true example of class, integrity, and dedication to those around her. Lighting up any room she entered with her vivacious personality and endearing smile.
“No words can truly capture all her beloved qualities and nothing will ever fill the hole left in the lives of those who loved her.”
