A MAN accused of killing his brother was refused bail by a judge today.

William Campbell, 25, is charged with the murder of his 24-year-old brother, Samuel, at an address in Park Avenue, Silksworth, Sunderland.

The deceased, who worked in a city centre pub in Sunderland, was found with life-threatening injuries at the family home and his death was subsequently confirmed at the scene, at about 1am last Friday.

William Campbell, of Allen Court, Stokesley, North Yorkshire, was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with the murder.

Appearing at a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court today, via video link from Durham Prison, where he is on remand, a bail application was made on his behalf by defence counsel Adam Birkby.

He told Judge Paul Sloan that his client is of good character and is in a permanent job, away from the area.

Mr Birkby said he could provide an address which may be suitable for the defendant to live prior to the trial.

But, following opposition to the granting of bail by prosecution counsel Neil Pallister, Judge Sloan refused the application.

It means the defendant will remain in custody prior to a plea hearing at the court on July 19.

A provisional date for trial was then agreed between parties, with the five-day scheduled hearing due to start on December 13.