A WIFE has appeared in court charged with the attempted murder of her husband.

Sally Stickland, 72, is accused of trying to kill John Stickland, 73, who was found with serious head injuries on a grass verge in West Common, Langley, by members of the public at around 12.45pm on Saturday.

Southampton Magistrates’ Court heard that he had suffered a fracture to his neck, a fractured right collarbone, a fractured right temple, a cut to the head and bleeding on the brain.

He was taken by ambulance to Southampton General Hospital, where he remains in a “serious but stable condition”, although the court heard he was too unwell to give a full interview.

Magistrates also heard how the couple had been married for nearly 50 years and had three children.

They were due to celebrate their Golden Wedding on June 1.

Sally Stickland, of West Common, Langley, who is retired but previously worked as draughtswoman for Southampton City Council, was refused bail by magistrates.

The pensioner, who suffers from osteoporosis and high cholesterol, was refused bail was remanded in custody until July. She will next appear at Winchester Crown Court.

Mr Stickland was described as an “insular man” who loved his home.

Police believe he was knocked down by a car.

West Common was sealed off for most of Saturday while police carried out their investigations, which included door to door questioning.

Residents spoke to the Daily Echo of their shock at what happened, describing numerous paramedics and the air ambulance in a usually “sleepy” street.

Police are still appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information should contact Lyndhurst CID, quoting Operational Instructional, or ring the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.