A MAN has admitted preventing the lawful burial of a woman's body.

Stan Lee Marvel, 36, of no fixed address, appeared before Salisbury Crown Court today (Thursday, September 19).

He pleaded guilty to the charge that between November 27 and December 1 in Amesbury last year, without lawful excuse he prevented the burial of the dead body of Samantha Dixon.

The case was adjourned by Judge Susan Evans for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

She said the report would consider "all options" for sentencing.

Judge Evans said: "It is a serious offence you have admitted but you will be given some credit for your guilty plea."

He was given conditional bail and is due to appear before the court on October 24.