Partner of charity boss found stabbed to death in home after gas explosion appears in court charged with her murder
The partner of a charity boss found stabbed to death after a gas explosion ripped through her home has appeared in court charged with her murder.
Annabel Rook, 46, was found dead at her address in Dumont Road, Stoke Newington, North London just before 5am on June 17.
Clifton George, 44, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court charged with murdering Ms Rook and arson with recklessness as to whether life would be endangered.
He was remanded in custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing on September 24 while his trial was fixed for June 1 2026.
Prosecutor Nicholas Hearn said: 'We invite the court to fix a four week trial date.
'We understand that June 1 2026 is a date that the court can accommodate, and we ask the court to fix that trial date today.'
Judge Oscar Del Fabbro told George: 'You will next attend here on September 24 when you can expect to be arraigned, that is to enter for pleas. If necessary further directions will be given.'
Police were called to Ms Rook's house along with 40 firefighters after the gas explosion.
The front bay window of the property was completely blown out that morning, with debris including plants, wooden shutters and glass scattered across the street.
Two children, aged seven and nine, were also taken to hospital as a precaution following the incident but are not thought to have been inside the home when the explosion happened.
Ms Rook co-founded charity MamaSuze CIC supporting refugee and migrant women.
Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who is in charge of policing for the Central East Basic Command Unit, said yesterday: 'Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Annabel as they navigate this devastating loss.
'We ask that the public refrain from speculation and respect their privacy at this time, and we thank the Hackney community for their ongoing support.'
Ms Rook's family have said they were 'struggling to come to terms with this terrible tragedy.
'We have lost our beautiful daughter, sister, friend and mother.'
In the tribute released through the Met Police the family said: 'Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. She touched the hearts of so many.
'She gave her life to helping the vulnerable and the disadvantaged whether it was in refugee camps in Africa or setting up MamaSuze in London, to enhance the lives of survivors of forced displacement and gender-based violence.
'We would really appreciate it if our privacy could be respected.'
MamaSuze said in a statement it was 'devastated by the loss of our beloved co-founder' adding:
'Annabel was a profound force for good in the world, dedicating her working life to supporting women survivors.'
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation into the incident has been urged to contact police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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