A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering a Canvey mum.

Anthony Ayres appeared at Southend Magistrates Court this morning after Kelly Pearce died at Royal London Hospital after being found with serious injuries at an address in Fairlop Avenue, Canvey, at around 4.55pm on Thursday, November 19.

Ayres, 48, of Fairlop Avenue, Canvey, appeared wearing a red prison-issue jumpsuit. He spoke only to confirm his name, age and address.

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Chelmsford Crown Court tomorrow.