A MAN accused of murdering Gerald Pragnell and leaving his body on Southampton Common appeared in court today via a video link.

Tommy Scott, 34, of no fixed abode, is alleged to have killed Mr Pragnell, 66, and dumped him in woodland off Cemetery Road, Southampton, where he was found on Saturday.

In a three-minute hearing at Winchester Crown Court, January 11 was set as the date for the next hearing.

Scott spoke to confirm his name, date of birth, and nationality as British.

He is bearded and wore a grey round-neck sweater and a white shirt.

A provisional trial date has been set for April 23, 2019.

Judge Keith Cutler remanded Scott in custody and told him he would appear in person at the next hearing.