A MAN has appeared before a Southampton court charged with murder.

James Russell, 37, of no fixed abode, attended Southampton Magistrates Court this morning to confirm his identity.

He was arrested over the weekend in connection with the death of 32-year-old Nick Beattie, who was found dead in Golden Grove, St Mary's, on Friday.

Russell was then charged with murder this morning before his court appearance.

He did not enter a plea and will next appear before a judge at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday.