A man has appeared in court accused of the murder of woman who police believe was hit by a car.

Christopher Harris, 35, faced Taunton Magistrates’ Court charged with killing 34-year-old Laura Biss.

Her body was found on Burnham Road in Highbridge, Somerset, in the early hours of Saturday.

Initial findings of a post-mortem examination suggest that Ms Biss died as a result of a head injury, Avon and Somerset Police said.

Harris, of no fixed address, also faces a charge of causing the death of Ms Bliss by dangerous driving by driving a Vauxhall Combo van.

During the brief hearing Harris spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, his British nationality and that he was of no fixed address.

The court heard that both offences were so serious they could only be tried before a judge and jury.

The magistrates also had no power in murder cases to hear an application for bail, the court was told.

Richard Carverth, chairman of the bench, remanded Harris into custody and ordered him to appear before Exeter Crown Court on January 25.

Addressing Harris, Mr Carverth said: “You’ve heard what has been said.

“This will be heard at Exeter Crown Court on January 25.”