A MAN pleaded not guilty to the murder of Pitsea mum Madison Wright in court today.

Appearing via video link from HMP Chelmsford, Gary Bennett pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering mother Madison Wright at Basildon Crown Court today.

Bennett, 36, of Caister Drive, Pitsea, was charged by Essex Police with her murder on July 31.

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The hearing in front of Judge Samantha Leigh was told he will appear back at the court on February 1 for another preparation hearing ahead of trial.

A provisional date for the trial has been set for March 13.

Ms Wright, 30, of Pitsea, went missing on the morning of Friday, July 22.

An investigation into her disappearance was launched by Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate leading to the arrest of Bennett.

On Saturday, July 30 a body was discovered at Wat Tyler Country Park, which was cordoned off from the public for several days. The body was later positively identified as belonging to Ms Wright.