Russell Bishop to face trial over murders of two schoolgirls in 1986

A 51-year-old man is to go on trial for the murders of two schoolgirls more than 30 years ago.

Russell Bishop is accused of killing nine-year-olds Karen Hadaway and Nicola Fellows on October 9 1986.

The girls were found dead in Wild Park, near the Moulscoomb estate in Brighton.

Bishop appeared in custody by video link before Mr Justice Edis for a plea hearing at the Old Bailey.

Bespectacled Bishop wore a black and white striped T-shirt.

The balding defendant sat with his muscular arms crossed, resting his head in his hand.

He spoke to confirm his name and when asked to enter pleas to the two murder charges, replied: "Not guilty, ma'am."

At an earlier hearing on January 26, the senior judge set a trial at the Old Bailey for October 15.

The case prosecuted by Alison Morgan is expected to go on for six to eight weeks.

Bishop, who was represented by Nicholas Peacock, was remanded into custody.

A further pre-trial hearing is due to be held in early September on a date to be fixed.

Mr Justice Edis authorised some matters discussed at the hearing to be published.