A man accused of forging the will of his murdered former partner so he could inherit their jointly-owned home has appeared in court.

Robert Webb, 53, of Walton Road, West Molesey, is charged with fraud by false representation regarding the alleged falsification of his ex-partner Robyn Mercer’s will on or before September 20, 2016.

The body of Ms Mercer, an antiques dealer and mother-of-two, was found battered to death in her front garden in Abbey Walk in Walton Road on March 13, by an “axe or machete”, according to a Crimewatch appeal last year.

Webb, appearing at Staines Magistrates’ Court today, made no indication of a plea as he stood in the dock.

Charlotte Chirico, prosecuting, said: “On 14th March 2016, Robyn Mercer was found on the driveway of the home she shared with the defendant. They were separated at the time but lived together.

“Land registry details of the property were listed in both of their names and in 2007 the house was valued at £420,000.

“They were held as tenants in common, with a 65 per cent share of the house in Robyn Mercer’s name and a 35 per cent share in Robert Webb’s name.

“Police officers went to the address on the day, and they never found any will. However on 26th September solicitors representing Robert Webb said he had discovered a will at the home dated 23rd August 2015.

“It said the life interest of Robyn Mercer was to be passed to the defendant on her death. So her share of the property on her death would be passed to him.

“This has been investigated but police believe this is a forgery.”

Wearing a brown suit jacket and white shirt, Webb spoke only to confirm his name and the conditions of his bail.

He will appear at Kingston Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on March 28.