South Wales Police can confirm that the 37 year-old man who was being held in custody in connection with the death of Sarah Hassall has been charged with her murder.

Brian Manship, of Pontypridd, will appear before Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on Wednesday (9 October, 2019).

Sarah Hassall died following an incident at an address in Llys Graig Ty Wion, Pontypridd, on Sunday morning (6 October).

Sarah Hassall was from Chelmsford, Essex – her family have paid the following tribute to her:

‘After growing up in the family home in Chelmsford, Sarah dedicated herself to 14 years of military service in both the RAF and the Royal Engineers.

‘Her career was dominated by her commitment to mountain search and rescue – Sarah represented her units at both rock climbing competitions and competitive running.

‘Sarah left the army in 2010 to embark on, and excel at, even greater challenges – raising two young boys, Owain and Evan.

‘Sarah was my best friend and touched many more lives along the way. We all now mourn her passing, grateful for the short time we had in her company.’

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Oshea, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “I would like to thank the local community for their support and cooperation following this shocking incident and I would like to emphasise that incidents of this nature really are extremely rare.”

Specially trained family liaison officers continue to provide to support to Sarah’s family at this difficult time.