A MAN made his first appearance at crown court yesterday facing charges after a double stabbing.

Tony Hedley, 22, of Charlotte Close, Elswick, Newcastle, is accused of murdering 44-year-old truck driver Lawrence Steel during an incident outside the Wrekendyke pub, in Gateshead.

He also faces a charge of wounding with intent in relation to Mr Steel's son, Craig, 22.

No plea was taken during the short hearing at Newcastle yesterday and Mr Hedley will be back before the court on April 12. A provisional trial date was set for July 24.

He was remanded in custody and no application was made for bail.