A MAN charged with the murder of Robert Sempey in Haydock has appeared in court.

Ian Robertson, 33, of Beilby Road, Haydock appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (January 24).

Kirsty Jervis, 30, of Beilby Road, Haydock, who has been charged with assisting an offender, also appeared.

The body of 37-year-old Mr Sempey, from Newton-le-Willows, was discovered in a back garden on Bielby Road, Haydock on Sunday, January 21.

A Home Office post mortem examination established that he died as a result of stab wounds.

Both were remanded in custody after Wednesday's hearing.

A plea and trial preparation hearing has been scheduled at Liverpool Crown Court for April 19.

A possible trial has been earmarked for July 16.