A SOLDIER charged with the murder of a young woman has entered a ‘not guilty’ plea.

Lance Corporal Trimaan Dhillon, 25, who serves with the Royal Regiment of Scotland, appeared before Newcastle Crown Court.

He is charged with the murder of 24-year-old Alice Ruggles, who suffered fatal injuries during an attack at her home on Rawling Road in Gateshead at teatime on Wednesday, October 12.

Ms Ruggles was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

She was a former student of Leicester High School for Girls, had attended Northumbria University and was working for Sky in Newcastle.

Dhillon, also known as Harry Dhillon, of Glencorse Barracks in Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland, appeared on a video link to Durham Prison where he is being held.

Judge Paul Sloan, Recorder of Newcastle, remanded him in custody.

He will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on January 20 for pre-trial hearing.