Man in court over wife's murder
- Published
A man accused of murdering his wife, bundling up her body and hiding it in the basement of her home, is likely to face trial at the end of January.
Harry Jarvis, 60, and alleged accomplice Rita Heyster, 56, made a brief appearance at the High Court in Edinburgh.
They deny murdering Carol Jarvis in September last year at Balbardie Crescent, Bathgate, West Lothian.
They also deny a charge of attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
It is alleged that the body of 47-year-old Mrs Jarvis was wrapped in a blanket, secured by parcel tape, then hidden.
Medication charge
It is further alleged that the couple told a series of lies aimed at making people believe Mrs Jarvis was still alive.
Mr Jarvis also denies attempting to murder his wife on a number of occasions during the course of last year by getting her to take medication.
Judge Lord Kinclaven set a trial date for 31 January next year in Edinburgh.
Mr Jarvis and Ms Heyster, both from Livingston, are expected back in court on 19 November for the trial date to be confirmed.
Lord Kinclaven allowed them to remain on bail until then.