Stabbing victim died from brain injury

Leanne Meecham was attacked at her home in Park Street, Westcliff, Essex, at about 9.30am on February 13.

The 26-year-old, who is understood to be a mother-of-one, spent a week being treated at the Royal London Hospital in London before finally sucumbing to
her injuries and dying on February 20.

Her former partner, Simon Meecham, 42, of Southend, Essex, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday charged with killing “devoted mother’’ Ms Meecham.

Meecham spoke at the hearing to confirm his name and date
of birth. However he did not give his address during the brief hearing.

He was remanded in custody and will now appear at Chelmsford Crown Court today.

A plea and case management hearing is set to take place on April 28 at the same court.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “It has been determined that 26-year-old Leanne died of a brain injury, which was the result of a cardiac arrest due to a stab wound to her throat.”

An inquest into her death is due to be opened tomorrow.

The family of Leanne have paid tribute to their “much-loved daughter, sister and mother’’ in a statement issued following her death.

They said: “Leanne was a beautiful woman and a much-loved daughter, sister and mother who always put the happiness of others before her own.

“She was a devoted mother and a best friend to her siblings, and was always there for anyone who ever needed her help.

“Leanne would not let people worry about her and even when times were tough for her she showed that she was one of life’s angels.”

The family statement added: “Leanne’s tragic and untimely death has left a massive hole in all of our lives that none of us will ever be able to fill and she will never be forgotten by those who love her.

“We hope that Leanne is now in peace and that justice be allowed to take its course.

“We ask that we be left to grieve in private at this difficult time.”