Company director ‘murdered ex-fiancee who was found naked near pool of blood at posh hotel used by England’s rugby team’
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.
Ms Mickleburgh was found naked, face up with a pool of blood present the following morning, it was said.
Read more news
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.