Man, 63, denies murdering wife and her son after pair found seriously injured at village home

A MAN has denied murdering his wife and her son after the pair were found seriously injured at home.

Maria Nugara, 54, and 29-year-old Giuseppe Morreale were died following the horror in the village of Ugley, Essex .

PA

The mum’s husband Calogero Ricotta, 63, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court today.

He pleaded not guilty to murder and a charge of actual bodily harm in respect of another person, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Ricotta, who was assisted in court by an Italian interpreter, was remanded into custody.

A provisional trial date scheduled to last for three weeks was set for January 20 next year.

The horror unfolded just before 10pm on May 28 following reports two people had been seriously injured at the property.

Police tragically discovered both Maria and Giuseppe dead inside.

Stunned neighbours told how the family “kept themselves to themselves” and had various animals at their home.

In a tribute, the family said Maria was “loving and dedicated to her four children and grandson”.

They added: “No matter what, she always had a smile and a positive outlook on life.

“Her infectious energy and her vibrant personality was always a joy to be around.”

The family also described Giuseppe as someone who “always had a cheeky smile and a loving heart”.

“He loved his family and was always there for them”, they said.

The statement continued: “He had a very close bond with mum, and always looked out for her.

“Life will never be the same again. It’s not fair that they have been taken away from us.

“As you can imagine our family is devastated, losing both of them has caused a massive void in our hearts.”

East Anglia News Service