The partner of missing children’s author Helen Bailey has been charged with her murder after her remains were discovered in the grounds of her home.
Ian Stewart was re-arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday, having previously been arrested on Monday, when specialist teams began searching the property, Hertfordshire Police said.
Her body was found in the grounds of her home in Royston, Herts, three months after she was last seen, the Press Association reported.
She was buried next to her miniature dachshund, Boris, police said.
According to the Independent, Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Fullwood said: “We can now confirm it is Helen Bailey’s body which was located within the grounds of her home yesterday, along with the body of her dog Boris.
“The searches, which resulted in the discovery, have been painstaking and more work will need to take place in the coming days.
“Specialist officers are continuing to support Helen’s family at this extremely difficult time.”
Hertfordshire Police said: “A man has today (July 16) appeared before Hatfield Remand Court charged in connection with the death of author Helen Bailey.
“Ian Stewart, who is 55 years old and from Baldock Road in Royston, is charged with murdering the 51 year old in Royston, on April 11, 2016, perverting the course of justice (reporting Helen Bailey as missing to police and hiding her body) and preventing lawful burial.
“No bail application was made and he will appear before St Albans Crown Court on Monday, July 18.”
The 51-year-old children’s novelist, who wrote the Electra Brown novels, was last seen walking her dog on April 11.
That was several weeks after the fifth anniversary of the death of her husband, John Sinfield, who drowned on a holiday in Barbados in February 2011.
In April, following her disappearance, extensive searches were carried out at Bailey’s holiday home in Broadstairs, Kent, where friends originally said they believed the author might have gone in order to have ‘’some time to herself’’.
In a statement released by police, her family said: “We share with Helen’s friends, neighbours and fans our shock, disbelief and sadness at the news of her tragic death.
“As a family we also stand in solidarity with those around the world who have also suffered loss under tragic circumstances.
“Helen was immensely witty and talented. We love her deeply and are immensely proud of her achievements. She is now at peace and we shall all miss her terribly.
“We wish to express our gratitude to the police as well as all those who supported us in the search for Helen in whatever way they could.”