Jill Barclay Aberdeen: Rhys Bennett appears in court charged with murder of woman in Dyce area of city

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a “much loved” mum whose body was found opposite a roundabout.

Police Scotland launched a murder probe after mum-of-two Jill Barclay was found on Stoneywood Road in the Dyce area of Aberdeen in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A vigil was held in memory of Ms Barclay on Tuesday evening - while an event will take place at a local church on Wednesday (21 September) to remember her.

A man has now appeared in court in connection with the 47-year-old’s death.

22-year-old facing murder charge

Rhys Bennett, from Ballingry in Fife, was charged with murder and an attempt to defeat the end of justice.

He appeared in private at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

The 22-year-old entered no plea and was remanded in custody.

He will appear at court again within the next eight days.

Ms Barclay’s family said in a statement: “Jill was a deeply loved life partner, mother and daughter.”

Police Scotland’s North East’s Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen said: “This has been an extremely distressing incident which has caused a great deal of shock in the local community.

“This shock has also been felt across the North East and our thoughts are with Jill’s family and friends at this very difficult time. “Officers will be in the area over the coming days carrying out enquiries and providing reassurance.

“Please approach them if you would like to speak to someone.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the community for your patience – your support is appreciated.”

More than £15,000 raised towards funeral costs

A Go Fund Me page set up to raise money towards funeral costs has already raised more than £15,000.

Created by Claire Carstairs and Gillian Gove it states: “Jill was a much loved partner, daughter, a parent of two, the best friend, a kickboxing ninja , a raver - a human with a heart of gold and true to the core.

“In light of Jill, she loved to party, when we have hit our milestone target we will have a - “Rave it like your Jill” event here in Stoneywood.

“In this dark time let’s come together as one as a community and raise as much funds as we possibly can for her beautiful family.”

Members of the community will have the opportunity to light a candle for Jill at Dyce Parish Church between 8-9pm on Wednesday evening. It comes after a candle-light vigil was held near the scene where her body was found.