A MAN accused of murdering a mother has denied the charge and will stand trial in the New Year.

Paul Plunkett pleaded not guilty to man the murder of Barbara Davison, whose body was found in William Street, Redcar, on Wednesday, August 15.

Appearing at Teesside Crown Court via a live video-link from Durham Prison, Mr Plunkett, 61, spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea.

Prosecutor Nicholas Lumley, QC, told Judge Simon Bourne-Arton, QC, that the case is still on track for a trial - expected to last eight to ten days - in mid-February.

Mr Plunkett, of Station Road, Redcar, was remanded in custody until the trial.

In a statement released through police, the family of Barbara Davison, 66, spoke of their loss following her death.

They said: “The family would like to say we are totally devastated at losing our mum."