London -
Two schoolgirls appeared in court on Thursday accused of murdering a “harmless and kind-hearted” woman in her home.
Angela Wrightson, 39, suffered substantial injuries and blood loss after she was allegedly attacked by the youngsters, aged 13 and 14.
The younger girl appeared first at Teesside Magistrate’s Court, dressed in black leggings and a fluffy jumper, while her mother wept at the back of the room.
The 13-year-old showed no emotion as District Judge Martin Walker told her the case would be sent to crown court and she would be held in a secure facility.
The older girl was led in separately, dressed in grey jogging bottoms and a hooded jumper.
She looked pale and wept throughout the hearing, dabbing her eyes with a tissue, as the judge told her she would also be held in secure accommodation.
Her father broke down in tears when she waved and smiled at him as she was led away.
Both girls, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, spoke only to confirm their names, addresses and dates of birth.
Wrightson was found dead at her home in Hartlepool on Tuesday.
Neighbours described her as “kind-hearted” despite a long battle with alcoholism.
Her friend Clare Miller, 35, said: “Angela was trusting and gentle and wouldn’t hurt anyone.”
Daily Mail