Fiona Beale, 48, is accused of killing Nicholas Billingham, 42, between October 30 and November 10 last year. The builder was found in the garden of their property on Moore Street in Northampton in March after four days of digging – and almost five months after his death. At Northampton Crown Court on Friday, the 48-year-old accused spoke only to confirm her name and innocence during a brief hearing. The remains of Nicholas Billingham were found buried in the back garden of a house in Northampton (Northamptonshire Police/PA) (Average PA) Mr Billingham died from a stab wound to the neck. Beal was arrested at a hotel in Cumbria in March – the same day Northamptonshire Police began an extensive search of her home. She had taught at Eastfield Academy in Northampton before her arrest and has since been dismissed. Coroners and specialist investigation teams, including a cadaver dog, were deployed to the address before the discovery was made days later. In a tribute to Mr Billingham previously released on behalf of his family by Northamptonshire Police, they said: “Our hearts go out to Nick. He was a beautiful little boy and we have so many fond memories of him growing up and were so proud of the man he became. Forensics at the scene on Moore Street (Jacob King/PA) (PA wire) “He just went on with life, which has now been tragically cut short. “Rest in peace, Nico. Until we meet again, sleep well and remember all the good times we spent together. We will love you always and forever.” Northampton’s Eastfield Academy, where Beal worked before her arrest, said they were “shocked and saddened” to hear of Mr Billingham’s death – describing the incident as a “terrifying tragedy which will rock our school community”. . Beal, of Moore Street, was remanded in custody to appear at the same court on September 6. A trial date was previously set for September 12.
