Businesswoman killed at hotel used by Duke of Sussex’s wedding guests
A company boss has appeared in court accused of murdering an entrepreneur at a Surrey hotel used by guests at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
James Cartwright, 60, was arrested five days after a housekeeper at the five-star Pennyhill Park in Bagshot found the body of Samantha Mickleburgh, 54.
The hotel and spa, which is a favourite with the England rugby squad and lies two miles from the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh’s home, accommodated some of the guests invited to Prince Harry’s 2018 marriage to Meghan Markle in Windsor, Berks.
Paramedics were called to the £400-a-night hotel on April 14.
Mr Cartwright, who is reported to be Ms Mickleburgh’s former partner, appeared at Guildford magistrates’ court on Monday charged with murder, and controlling and coercive behaviour.
He runs an estate agency in Axminster, Devon, while Ms Mickleburgh was a businesswoman who launched several start-ups and had worked for Axminster Carpets, BP, British Airways and Thomson Reuters.
Ms Mickleburgh’s family paid tribute to her as a “true example of class, integrity, and dedication”.
In a statement they said: “We are devastated by the loss of Samantha, an incredible mother, beautiful, much cherished daughter, and friend.
“Loved by many, she was a true example of class, integrity, and dedication to those around her. Lighting up any room she entered with her vivacious personality and endearing smile.
‘Beloved qualities’
“No words can truly capture all her beloved qualities and nothing will ever fill the hole left in the lives of those who loved her.”
Her two children said: “Nothing can prepare you to face the world without your parents at a young age. Our mother had been both parents to us since the loss of our father and she was doing such an amazing job at it.
“No finer example of a mum could there be, we will feel the loss in every aspect of our lives. We are grateful to be such a close family and for the support we continue to receive from those who knew Samantha.
Ms Mickleburgh had been an “entrepreneur in residence” at SETsquared Exeter, which supports start-ups across the South West of England, and spoke out on International Women’s Day in 2019 about how “it’s confidence that holds female entrepreneurs back”.
She was credited with “playing a pivotal role in the turnaround of Axminster Carpets”, the 18th century carpet manufacturer, SETsquared Exeter said.
Set in 120 acres of parkland, Pennyhill Park hotel describes itself as “Surrey’s most luxurious spa and hotel retreat”.
It was sealed off by police and forensic science officers at the weekend.
Det Insp Debbie Birch said: “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this difficult time. The investigation is in the early stages and a specialist team of officers are working around the clock to follow up inquiries.”
Mr Cartwright, who was arrested on Friday, appeared in court in a quilted jacket and grey trousers and was remanded in custody until his next appearance on Wednesday at Guildford Crown Court. He spoke only to confirm his name.
