A Wallington lorry driver accused of strangling his lover to death is due to stand trial at the Old Bailey in April next year.
Keith Thornhill, 34, is accused of killing girlfriend Melanie Welch on August 11 this year at her Surrey home.
The body of the 26-year-old was discovered by concerned relatives who forced their way into her flat in Hurst Green, Oxted. Miss Welch, a part-time hairdresser, was the mother of Thornhill's five-year-old son.
Thornhill spoke only to confirm his name during the brief proceedings on November 30. He was due to enter a plea but the hearing was adjourned after his defence team asked for further time to prepare for the case.
Thornhill, of Stafford Rd, was remanded in custody by Judge Gerald Gordon.
He is due to return to the Old Bailey on January 18 for a plea and directions hearing.
A provisional trial date was set for April 8 next year.
December 6, 2001 10:30
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