Billy Allison, a co-founder of the patriotic campaign group Raise the Colours, has been charged with murder following an incident outside a bar in Lichfield. The 36-year-old appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Wednesday, where he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.
Incident at Ricco and Loren Bar
Police were called to reports of two men being punched at the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street at 11:25 pm on Sunday. One of the victims, Matthew O'Gara, died in hospital on Tuesday afternoon. The second victim, Adam Cooper, was also taken to hospital but has since been discharged.
During an eight-minute hearing before Judge Avik Mukherjee, a trial date was set for October 26, expected to last two weeks. Allison, wearing a blue long-sleeved top, stood with his hands clasped in front of him as the judge remanded him into custody. He is next due to appear in court on September 1.
Bar Statement
A spokesperson for Ricco and Loren expressed devastation over the events, stating: "As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days. We have been working closely with the police in this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time." The bar announced it would close for a few days to allow staff time to grieve.
Background of Billy Allison
Allison is a key member of Raise the Colours, a campaign movement that displays the Union Flag and Saint George's Cross in public places. He was part of 'Operation Overlord,' where the group traveled to Calais to speak with asylum seekers and charity workers there.
