A Northampton man has pleaded not guilty to the rape and murder of his former partner.

Michael Thompson, of Pinewood Road, appeared at Northampton Crown Court on Tuesday December 16.

The 55-year-old pleaded not guilty to the rape and murder of his former partner 43-year-old Kimberley Thompson.

He also pleaded not guilty to two additional charges of committing an act with intent to pervert the course of public justice.

Ms Thompson was found dead at a home in Pinewood Road on August 9 this year.

The trial is due to start on May 18, 2026 and is expected to last around 10 days.

Thompson has been remanded in custody ahead of his next court hearing.

Northampton man pleads not guilty to rape and murder of former partner as trial date set