Man charged with murdering housing worker after car crash

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 12:32 · Archive

Clifford Foster, 61, has been charged with murdering Eleanor Barnfield, 47, a housing association worker.

Clifford Foster, 61, appeared at Newport Magistrates' Court on Friday charged with murdering Eleanor Barnfield, 47. Ms Barnfield died in hospital after her car crashed into a wall on Coity Road in Bridgend on Monday, having suffered puncture wounds not sustained in the collision.

Foster lived at the Ger-y-Nant sheltered housing complex in Bridgend, managed by the Valleys to Coast housing association, where Ms Barnfield worked. The facility comprises 13 retirement flats for people aged 60 and over, with non-resident management staff. The charge followed a significant policing operation at the complex.

During Friday's hearing, Foster spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth, and was not asked to enter a plea. Magistrate Barbara Williams said the case was indictable only and told him he would appear at Cardiff Crown Court on 26 October for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He was remanded in custody.

Ms Barnfield's family described her as the 'most loving' mother and the 'bravest person in the world'. Jo Oak, chief executive of Valleys to Coast, said: 'We are devastated by the tragic death of our colleague, Eleanor Barnfield. Eleanor was a much-valued member of the Valleys to Coast team.'

How it is being reported

• Man charged with murder of housing worker after crash deathClifford Foster charged with murdering Valleys to Coast worker Eleanor Barnfield after Bridgend car crash; he will appear at Cardiff Crown Court on October 26.South Wales Argus · 23 Oct, 12:14
• Murder suspect lived in housing complex where alleged victim worked, court toldClifford Foster, 61, has been charged with murdering Eleanor Barnfield, 47WalesOnline · 23 Oct, 11:27

In this story: Clifford Foster · Eleanor Barnfield · Valleys to Coast · Newport Magistrates' Court · Cardiff Crown Court · Bridgend

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