A MAN accused of murdering a neighbour has appeared before a judge today.

Gordon Meale, 50, of Sunnydale in Shildon, County Durham, did not enter a plea during the 10 minute hearing at Teesside Crown Court.

He is charged with murdering 56-year-old Jimmy Scaife, who also lived in Sunnydale, on Wednesday, December 30.

The body of the father-of-two was discovered on a path next to allotments in Green lane, Shildon, by a dog walker.

A post-mortem examination later concluded that Mr Scaife died from head injuries.

Mr Meale spoke only to confirm his name during the brief hearing.

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance on April 12.

A potential trial date of June 1 or 2 was set.