Man in court accused of Church Stretton attempted murder

A Shropshire pensioner appeared in court today accused of attempting to murder his ex-wife.

Leonard Parton, of Upper Galdeford, in Ludlow, spoke only to confirm his name and address when he appeared at Telford Magistrates Court.

The 71-year-old is charged with the attempted murder of Rosemary Ann Parton in Church Stretton on May 19, as well as breaching a non-molestation order taken out by his ex-wife preventing him from contacting her.

Andrew Burke prosecuting said: "The victim is 64-year-old Rosemary Ann Parton, who was married to the defendant for many years. She left him on her 60th birthday, they are now divorced and have adult children."

Mr Burke said Mrs Parton and her sister were walking in Church Stretton at about 2.50pm on Thursday when she was attacked. Police arrested Parton in a nearby car park.

Parton, who was remanded in custody, will appear at Shrewsbury Crown Court on May 31.