A man accused of murdering a mum-of-three could stand trial this autumn.
The body of 54-year-old Helen Joy was found at a Wirral flat on the morning of Monday, February 1, this year.
Police said emergency services were called to the property in Twickenham Drive, Leasowe shortly before 11am.
Detectives arrested Kevin Ashton, also of Twickenham Drive, who was charged with murder on Thursday, January 4.
The 45-year-old suspect appeared at Liverpool Crown Court this afternoon, via video link from HMP Altcourse.
Ashton, with short grey hair, beard, glasses and wearing a grey sweatshirt spoke only to confirm his personal details.
Michael Stephenson, prosecuting, said Ashton was accused of murdering the mum between January 28 and February 1.
Michael Scholes, defending, made no application for bail on behalf of his client.
Judge Neil Flewitt, QC, told Ashton he will next appear at court, again via video link, for a plea and trial preparation hearing on May 4, when he will be expected to enter his plea.
The judge set a provisional trial for October 4 this year and remanded Ashton in custody.
In a statement, issued through Merseyside Police in the wake of her death, Ms Joy's son and daughters said they were "heartbroken".
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They said: "The news of our mum's death came as a massive shock to us all and we are all heartbroken.
"We didn't always see eye to eye but she was our mum and we are all devastated by what has happened.
"We are happy that mum is no longer in pain and is now safe with the angels and now we just want justice for her."
The family have asked for privacy as they grieve for their loss.
Pictures taken at the scene on Monday showed officers guarding the property as police tape was seen around the front gate of the building.
Neighbours told the ECHO how upset they were by the incident, with many saying they were "heartbroken" for the woman's family.
After police confirmed they had launched a murder investigation, people who knew her posted on Facebook about how sad they were over her death.
Jourden Hankin said: "RIP. You will be missed by us all.
"Rest in peace and spread your angel wings as far as you can.
"Because you are free."
Another friend, Sammii Sam also said: "So heartbreaking, you deserved better angel.
"Rest in peace."
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