Stockport woman ‘murdered dad 12 years ago and buried him in garden before posing as him to claim cash’

A WOMAN who allegedly killed and buried a man is also accused of posing as her victim for more than a decade to claim cash.

Barbara Coombes, 63, today appeared in court charged with the murder of her father Kenneth Coombes in January 2006, as well as preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body and fraud by false representation.

The mother-of-one this morning faced Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court, also accused of sending official letters in his name to claim money.

Barbara, who has distinctive shoulder-length curly white hair, wore a grey wool-blend baggy jumper and black glasses, has also been charged with claiming to be a carer of the elderly man for more than 10 years after his death.

She stared ahead, motionless, during her appearance in court, speaking only to confirm her name, age, address and nationality in court, and was remanded in custody.

Officers then began to search the home in Reddish, discovering human remains on Tuesday, believed to be Barbara's father, former soldier Kenneth Coombes.

Police had yesterday been issuing questionnaires to neighbours, asking them if they knew Mr Coombes, particularly focusing on the years 2004 and 2005.

Barbara's ex-husband Bill told The Daily Mail yesterday that Kenneth, who previously served as a bombardier, was "domineering", adding: "He liked to humiliate people and make them feel small and that included Barbara and my daughter Islay."

He also revealed that the 63-year-old accused had been suffering from stomach cancer for several years.

A post mortem on the unearthed human remains discovered on Tuesday was expected to take place within 24 hours of the discovery.

Coombes is next expert to appear at Manchester Crown Court tomorrow.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1273 of 07/01/18.

The independent charity Crimestoppers, can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.