A MAN has denied killing a friend who went into a coma and died two years after the attack.

Kieron McNally, 32, of Eden Avenue, Leadgate, near Consett in County Durham, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Geoffrey McEwen, 39, in December 2006 when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court this morning.

McNally was previously jailed for six years after he admitted causing Mr McEwen grievous bodily harm with intent. The murder charge was brought after Mr McEwen's death.

McNally is due to be released on licence from his prison sentence in April.

He is due to be tried on the murder charge on March 22.