Diamond Farm holiday park murder victim and suspect named as 'lovely couple'

A 70-year-old man has been charged with the murder of his partner at a holiday park.

Simon Steeves will appear in court today in connection with the death of Denise Steeves, 59, at Diamond Meadow Lodge Park in Brean, Somerset. Officers raced to the caravan and camping site around 4.50pm on Wednesday to find the victim, aged in her 50s, with "significant injuries". 

Despite their best efforts, she was sadly pronounced at the scene dead half an hour later. Steeves was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and has now been charged. Locals say the couple lived together at the park, and were often seen walking their dog around the site.

Officers raced to the caravan and camping site around 4.50pm on Wednesday (SWNS)

One local, who lived on the park, said: "They were a lovely couple and lived together, they’d always be out on the park walking their dog. I’d always say hello and give them a wave. I’ve never seen any police around here and I’ve not seen anything unusual going on at their caravan.

“I was very surprised when I heard, the park was full of police cars and about three ambulances." Another local said: "I’ve lived here for over 35 years, I’ve never seen the police — other than driving past. It’s really unusual, there’s never been any trouble over there. I saw a helicopter landing there but I’m not sure if it was the police or ambulance one. It’s shocking." 

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The victim's family have been fully updated, say police. Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) Detective Inspector Neil Meade said: "Formal identification has yet to take place, however we believe the deceased to be Denise Steeves. Her family has been fully updated on this development and our continued thoughts are with them as they come to terms with what has happened. 

"We will continue to carry out a full and thorough investigation as this case progresses.  There will continue to be an increased police presence in the area and our officers are still available to answer any questions or concerns you may have." Steeves will appear at Taunton Magistrates' Court today.