Man denies murder and knifepoint burglary

A man has denied murder and carrying out a knifepoint burglary.

John Smyth, 63, died shortly after being found seriously injured at a house on Holly Avenue in Wallsend, North Tyneside, on 22 September.

Appearing at Newcastle Crown Court, George Henry Ness, 41, of Avon Avenue in North Shields, denied murder, aggravated burglary and possession of a knife in a public place.

He was remanded in custody and a trial date set for 17 February.

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