A MAN has admitted killing his wife and another woman – but denied their murder.

Daniel Appleton appeared at Lewes Crown Court yesterday charged with the murders of Amy Appleton and Sandra Seagrave on December 22.

Appleton denied murder but accepted the act of killing the pair.

Teacher Amy Appleton died near her home in Crawley Down.

She died alongside her neighbour, Sandra Seagrave, 76.

Daniel Appleton was injured at the time of the incident and taken to hospital in a critical condition.

He was released from hospital on January 24 and charged with the double murder.

Appearing via video link from Lewes Prison, Appleton was told his murder trial will be heard over two weeks in July.

It will most likely be held at Isleworth Crown Court because he is still suffering physical difficulties meaning he would be unable to climb the stairs into Lewes Crown Court.

Mr Lewis Power QC, defending, said the allegations that Appleton killed both women was not in dispute.

Mrs Appleton, a teacher at nearby Copthorne CE Junior School, was described by her family as a “beautiful, caring daughter, sister and friend”.

Her family said: “Amy had an amazing personality. She was such a strong, positive person who always smiled.

“She was a rock for her family, a rock for her friends and most of all a rock for herself.

“Amy always thought of others before herself. Amy led the life she was destined to fill, following her passions.

“Her school will be missing an incredible, dedicated teacher, she gave 110 per cent to her pupils.

“Her light will always shine in our lives but a hole has been left with broken hearts.

“The whole family would like to send heartfelt thanks for all kind messages and thoughtful tributes.

“Keep shining our girl, you will forever be in our hearts.”

Mrs Seagrave’s family described her as “one of a kind, an eccentric character who was stubbornly independent, feisty, brave and not afraid of anything”.

They said: “She was devoted to children and especially animals, including a wild fox who we are continuing to feed now that she has gone.”

Daniel Appleton will go on trial charged with the murders on July 6.