A 34-year-old former Commando Royal Engineer has been remanded in custody to Exeter Crown Court facing two counts of murder.

Colin Reeves, 34, of Dragon Rise, Norton Fitzwarren, appeared before Taunton magistrates in a two-minute remand hearing today to appear at Exeter Crown Court tomorrow.

He is accused of the murder of Jennifer Chapple, 33, and Stephen Chapple, 36, on Sunday, November 21, at their address also in Dragon Rise, Norton Fitzwarren.

Bearded and with a moustache, he was wearing a grey, round-necked sweatshirt. He spoke only to confirm his name and address. He was not asked his current occupation.

As he was dismissed from the court, people sat in the public gallery called ‘we love you, stay strong’ as he remained in the dock.

Also in court were defence solicitor Kieran Hughes and Ms Richie, of the Crown Prosecution Service.