Man, 92, appears in court charged with 1967 rape and murder of Louisa Dunne in Bristol

Ryland Headley Credit: PA/Elizabeth Cook

A 92-year-old man has been remanded into custody after appearing in court charged with raping and murdering a Bristol woman 57 years ago.

Ryland Headley, of Clarence Road, Ipswich, was arrested on Tuesday 19 November in connection with the killing of 75-year-old Louisa Dunne, who was found dead in her home by a neighbour in Easton in 1967.

He was charged overnight and appeared before Bristol Magistrates’ Court via video link from a police station on Wednesday 20 November.

Mr Headley was accompanied by his solicitor and was not asked to enter pleas to the two charges against him.

He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, and that he understood the hearing was taking place as if he was physically present in court.

A photo of Louisa Dunne, taken in 1945 Credit: A&S Police

Concluding Ryland Headley’s appearance at Bristol Magistrates’ Court, District Judge Lynne Matthews told the defendant: “There are two charges which are alleged against you.

“The first is that between the 26 and 29 of June 1967 in Easton, Bristol, you murdered Louisa Dunne. The second allegation is that between the same dates in Bristol, you raped Louisa Dunne.”

The judge added: “The two matters are going to be sent to the crown court. A hearing at Bristol Crown Court will be tomorrow, at or about 10am.

“I have no power to consider the question of your bail, and therefore you will be remanded in custody until tomorrow."

Headley's charge is 'hugely significant'

Speaking after Mr Headley was charged, DI Dave Marchant of Avon and Somerset Police said: “This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation. Now criminal proceedings are underway it’s important to stress the defendant has the right to a fair trial.

"Any speculation or misinformation on the circumstances of this case has the potential to prejudice these ongoing proceedings.

“We’ve updated Louisa’s family about this charging decision and a specialist liaison officer will continue to support them in the coming days, weeks and months.”