A North Wales man accused of murdering his father is set to face trial next year. Martin Ward, 33, has been charged with the murder of Michael Ward, 53, in Holyhead on Saturday.
Ward appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court on Wednesday via a video link from HMP Berwyn, where he is being held on remand. Dressed in a grey jumper and trousers, he spoke only to confirm his name in a brief hearing.
Court Appearance and Trial Estimate
Prosecution barrister David Mainstone told the court the defendant is charged with murder and was making his first crown court appearance in the case. Simon Rogers, appearing for Ward, suggested the trial could last about two weeks. The judge, His Honour Geraint Walters, agreed with that estimate.
No plea has been entered at this stage. The judge said the defendant should be able to enter a plea at a plea and trial preparation hearing on January 25 next year, with a trial provisionally set for April.
Trial Date and Location
Judge Walters said: "Provisionally I will fix a trial in this case for April 5." He added that it was likely to be held at Caernarfon Crown Court.
Police had been called to flats off London Road in Holyhead by the Welsh Ambulance Service at 12.42am on Saturday, October 17. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best efforts of the medics.
Family Tribute
His family said: "Our father was a loving family man with a big heart. He will be greatly missed. We would ask for our privacy to be respected at this difficult time whilst we process our loss."
