Man in court accused over murder of two girls aged nine thirty years ago
A MAN is to go on trial for the murders of two girls more than 30 years ago. Russell Bishop is accused of killing nine-year-olds Karen Hadaway and Nicola Fellows.
Russell Bishop is accused of the murder of two girls in 1988
The girls were found dead in Wild Park, near the Moulscoomb estate in Brighton, on October 9, 1986. Yesterday, the 51-year-old made a brief appearance at the Old Bailey via video link.
Wearing a black-and-white striped T-shirt, bespectacled Bishop sat with his arms crossed as he listened to proceedings.
He spoke to confirm his name and when asked to enter pleas to the two murder charges.
As the lady clerk read out the indictment, he replied: “Not guilty, ma’am.”
Bishop appeared at the Old Bailey via video link
Mr Justice Edis remanded Bishop in custody. At an earlier hearing, the judge set the date for a trial at the Old Bailey for October 15.
The case, prosecuted by Brian Altman, QC and Alison Morgan, is expected to last six to eight weeks. Bishop will be defended by Joel Bennathan, QC and Nicholas Peacock.
Miss Morgan and Mr Peacock appeared at yesterday’s hearing.
A further pre-trial hearing is due to be held in early September on a date to be fixed.