A date has been set for the trial of a man accused of murdering his mother in a Somerset village.
Alexander McDonald, aged 27, appeared in person at Exeter Crown Court for the first time, his previous appearance in October having been by video link.
He was due to be arraigned but the case was adjourned without him entering a plea at the request of defence barrister Mr Adam Vaitilingam, QC.
McDonald, of Holly Park, Norton Fitzwarren, is accused of murdering his 57-year-old mother Catherine at the home they shared on September 30.
Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, remanded him in custody and set a trial date of June 15, 2015. He extended custody time limits to June 19.
He ordered any defence psychiatric evidence and the defence case statement must be served on the prosecution before March 6.
The case is due to be heard at Exeter by a High Court Judge and is currently listed to last up to ten days.
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