A father appeared in court this morning charged with the murder and rape of an award-winning basketball coach - his estranged wife.

Michael Thompon, 55, appeared at Northampton Magistratess' Court over the rape and murder of Kimberley Thompson, whose body was found at the marital home.

The 43-year-old former East Midlands coach of the year was found dead at the terraced property in Pinewood Road, Northampton, last month.

Northamptonshire Police only named the victim on Wednesday and said specially trained officers are continuing to support her family.

Thompson was charged with the August 9 rape and murder overnight.

He spoke only to confirm his name and address as Pinewood Road, Northampton.

During a one-minute hearing this morning he was told the case would be transferred to Northampton Crown Court for a hearing tomorrow.

Claudia Wade, the chairman of the bench, told Thompson: 'The matters against you are being sent to the crown court and the hearing will be at 10am tomorrow.

Kimberley Thonpson, a former East Midlands coach of the year, pictured at s shorting event

Michael Thompson appeared in the dock during the one-minute hearing at Northampton Magistrates' Court

'Until then you are remanded in custody.'

Thompson, wearing a grey sweatshirt, looked over at two family members in the court room and placed his hand on his heart as he was led from the dock.

Mrs Thompson has coached for Northants Basketball Club and was previously a coach on the Basketball England talent pathway programme that works towards players getting into the national squad.

Thompson and his alleged victim are believed to have had two children together.

Following Mrs Thompson's death last month neighbours told of their shock at her death.

One described her as a 'very nice, down to earth person' person and added: 'She was very sporty but family orientated, always with the children.

Forensic officers pictured outside the property where the couple had previously lived together

Mrs Thompson has coached for Northants Basketball Club and was previously a coach on the Basketball England talent pathway programme

'Everyone is in shock - she was a brilliant neighbour. This is a quiet neighbourhood usually.'

A resident in the quiet road added: 'They were a lovely family, both the father and mother, and the kids were absolutely smashing.'

The neighbour added: 'We woke up to police in the street...but we don't know any more about it.

'They were a lovely family and it's a terrible shock to everyone around here.'

A third resident said the family were 'always busy, they always seemed to be in a rush'.

Man accused of raping and murdering his estranged wife