THE man accused of murdering 86-year-old Amy Shepherd almost a quarter of a century ago is to stand trial at Bradford Crown Court on June 3.

Raymond Kay, 70, of Baker Fold, Halifax, is charged with killing Miss Shepherd at her home in Wibsey in August 1994.

Today Kay made his first appearance at the crown court and was remanded back into custody.

His solicitor advocate, Tariq Hussain, said a bail application would be heard no later than Thursday this week. Kay will then return to court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on January 8.

Bespectacled Kay, who wore a light grey, round-necked top, was hard of hearing, Mr Hussain told the court.

Prosecutor Kate Batty said he was there for “a matter of murder sent from the lower court on Friday.”

Mrs Batty told the Recorder of Bradford, Judge Jonathan Durham Hall QC, that Richard Wright QC will lead the Crown’s team during the trial, expected to last three weeks.

Judge Durham Hall said: “This is a very difficult and sensitive matter.”

He told Kay at the conclusion of the hearing: “Thank you Mr Kay. We’ll see you soon.”

The judge said the defendant would require the hearing loop system for his next appearances in court.

Miss Shepherd was found dead at the Folly Hall Gardens residential complex where she had lived alone for 14 years.