A FARMER denied the murder of his cousin when he appeared yesterday before a judge at Worcester Crown Court.

Roger Troughton, aged 74, is alleged to have attacked 59-year-old Robin Troughton with a shovel.

The victim, who lived in Longdon, near Upton-on-Severn, died 19 days after being taken to hospital on April 3.

The defendant, from Wood Street Farm, Bushley, near Tewkesbury, was remanded in custody by Judge Patrick Thomas QC.

The pensioner’s trial will start on or after January 30 next year.