Man Denies Murdering Pregnant Ex

A man accused of murdering his heavily pregnant ex-girlfriend and causing the death of their unborn daughter, pleaded not guilty at the Old Bailey yesterday.

Tony McLernon, 23, of North Grove, Harlow, was remanded in custody until his trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on February 18 next year.

Appearing at court number one, dressed in a blue tracksuit top and jeans, McLernon only spoke to confirm his identity and enter his pleas during the thirteen-minute hearing.

He pleaded not guilty to murdering of 20-year-old Estyna Blunnie (pictured) and one count of child destruction on June 27.

Estyna, of Halling Hill, was found fatally injured on the roadside in Howard Way shortly before 3am on Wednesday, June 27.

She died from severe head injuries.

She was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital but doctors were unable to save her or her unborn baby, who she planned to call Mia Rose.

Members of her family attended the Old Bailey, but did not sit in court because they are witnesses in the case.

One relative, who will not be giving evidence, was given permission by the judge to enter and listen to the proceedings.