An inquest has been opened on a 46 year old woman who was allegedly murdered in a former church in Dartmouth earlier this month.

A coroner said today (Thursday, October 15) Rebecca Grass died from 'blunt force head injuries' following a disturbance at the St Barnabas church in Newcomen Road on the evening of October 6.

Area coroner Deborah Archer said Rebecca was divorced and unemployed and was living in a flat at the 19th century church that has been repurposed for community housing.

The coroner said emergency services were called to St Barnabas church following a disturbance and found Rebecca unresponsive.

She died at 10.37pm despite the best efforts of the emergency crews, the Exeter hearing was told.

The inquest has been adjourned.

A 38 year old man has been charged with her murder and remanded in custody until next month.

Luke Rigby, who also lived in a flat at St Barnabas church, is accused of murdering Rebecca and faces other assault charges arising from the same incident.

He is due to appear before a judge at Plymouth Crown Court again on November 12.