Woman, 35, ‘murdered her own parents five years ago before mummifying their bodies’

AN artist appeared in court accused of murdering her parents - as police probe fears the bodies had been mummified.

Virginia McCullough, 35, has been charged with killing John and Lois McCullough, both in their 70s - up to five years ago.

She appeared at Basildon Crown Court today after cops confirmed the remains of the alleged victims were found at the family home they shared with their daughter.

Officers are unable to say exactly when the retired couple died - but state the alleged murders took place as long ago as 21 August 2018.

The court heard forensic experts are looking at the possibility John and Lois were wrapped in a protective material to preserve the bodies.

Corpses were seen being removed in body bags from the terraced property on Sunday.

Officers said they initially received “reports of concerns for the welfare of two people aged in their 70s” last Wednesday.

Ms McCullough - known by neighbours as Ginny - was arrested on suspicion of murder at her family’s modern three-storey end-terrace on Friday and charged on Sunday.

Neighbours said that Mr McCullough, who would be aged 74 if alive today, was a former lecturer at the Chelmsford College of Further Education.

He and his wife Lois, who would have been aged 75, are believed to have had four daughters, with Virginia being the youngest.

Ms McCullough of Great Baddow, Chelmsford, is charged with murdering John and Lois McCullough between August 21, 2018, and last Friday.

Appearing at Basildon crown court today, McCulloch spoke only to confirm her name.

No plea was entered and she was remanded in custody.