THE man accused of Rebecca Steer's murder in Oswestry last week is expected to enter a plea next month ahead of a potential trial in April 2023.

Stephen McHugh, 27, of Artillery Road in Park Hall, near Oswestry, appeared via a video link from HMP Hewell in front of Judge Melbourne Inman, Recorder of Birmingham, at the city's crown court on Friday.

Dressed in green and yellow prison clothing, McHugh watched on as prosecuting barrister Pete Grieve-Smith set out dates for the case, with the defendant expected to enter a plea on Friday, November 11.

Mr Grieve-Smith told the court that a trial would start at Stafford Crown Court on a provisional date of Thursday, April 11, 2023 and that an application for bail would not be entered.

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McHugh, who appeared via video link from HMP Hewell near Redditch, Worcestershire, faces charges of murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent to a male victim, failing to stop after an accident and driving without third party insurance.

Speaking only to confirm his name and ask when he will next appear, he sat for most of the proceedings – with his chin on his hands – taking in what was being said.

Judge Inman explained the process behind the preliminary hearing at Birmingham Crown Court.

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He said: "For those touched and concerned by the case, including Mr McHugh, it’s important I explain the purpose of today’s hearing is that it is preliminary.

"The law requires, given the gravity of it, that the case comes before me within 48 hours of the defendant appearing before the justices so I consider the appropriate remand.

"The case is to be tried at Stafford in April 11 next year, which is the earliest it can be heard there and gives people ample time to prepare.

"The next stage of this case will be on November 11 and the court will know more of the evidence and can make the appropriate directions so the procedural requirements are met.

"You will be remanded in custody and the next hearing will be in November."