A TRIAL date has been set for a Northwich man charged with murder.

Matthew Higgins, of Brook Lane, Rudheath, appeared at Chester Crown Court this morning - his second appearance in the dock since being accused of unlawfully killing David Eaton, aged 37.

The 35-year-old was formally charged with murder on Monday night after Mr Eaton, of Northwich, was found dead in Brook Lane at around 3.35pm on Saturday, September 28.

At today's hearing, sitting before judge Michael Leeming, no plea was entered however a date for a trial, expected to last 10 days, was set for March 24 next year.

Higgins' crown court appearance followed an initial hearing at Chester Magistrates Court yesterday, Tuesday, where it was heard Mr Eaton had suffered stab wounds to his chest.

While in the dock at magistrates court, Higgins, dressed in a grey jumper and joggers, could be seen mouthing to his attending family he loved them. 

A 41-year-old woman, arrested on suspicion of murder at the same time as Higgins, has since been released on conditional bail.