A South Woodford man accused of murdering a 77-year-old woman is set to stand trial next year.

Thomas Blazquez, 50, of Onslow Gardens, pleaded not guilty to killing Rosemary Shearman at a hearing at Southwark Crown Court today.

Rosemary, of Platford Green, Hornchurch, was found dead in her home in September. She had been due to leave for a 10-day holiday.

The trial of Blazquez, a former prosecution case worker, will begin on March 31.