Aldwick man admits murdering his 84-year-old wife at their home

Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 12:00

By Philip Keeler

79, Michael Pyke, Langley Grove, Aldwick, Bognor Regis - Credit: Sussex Police 2026

A 79-year-old man has pleaded guilty to murdering his elderly wife at their home in Aldwick, near Bognor Regis.

Michael Pyke admitted killing his 84-year-old wife, Beryl Pyke, following an incident at the couple's property in Langley Grove earlier this year.

Emergency services were called to the address on 31 May after concerns were raised about Beryl's welfare.

Sussex Police officers entered the property and discovered her body inside. She had suffered significant injuries to her head and chest.

Michael Pyke was arrested at the scene, and officers carried out a detailed search of the couple's home as part of the murder investigation.

During the search, police discovered bloodstained clothing in a laundry basket. Officers also recovered the knife used in the fatal attack, which had been concealed inside Pyke's bedside cabinet.

He was subsequently charged with his wife's murder on 2 June and remanded into custody.

On Monday 19 October, Pyke appeared before Brighton Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to murder.

He has been remanded back into custody and is due to be sentenced on Friday 13 November.

Following the guilty plea, Detective Superintendent Colin Garman, from Sussex Police, paid tribute to Beryl and acknowledged the devastating impact her death has had on those closest to her.

He said: "Beryl's death is a truly tragic loss, and one that has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew and loved her.

"Beryl’s life was taken inside her home, a place where she should have been safe.

"While Michael Pyke's guilty plea brings some clarity to what happened in May, for Beryl’s family and those closest to her, there is no conclusion to the loss they are living with. Nothing can undo the devastation caused by her death.

"As we approach sentencing, our thoughts remain firmly with Beryl’s family and friends, who have shown remarkable strength, courage and resilience throughout this incredibly difficult process."

Pyke will return to Brighton Crown Court next month to learn his sentence for the murder of his wife.

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