A 23-year-old man has been accused of murdering north-east pensioner Brian McKandie.
Steven Sidebottom, 23, appeared in private before Sheriff Graham Buchanan at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
He faced charges of murder, robbery, sexual assault, theft of a motor vehicle, wilful fireraising and theft.
He made no plea and was remanded in custody.
Mr McKandie, 67, was found dead at Fairview Cottages, Bandenscoth, Rothienorman on Saturday, March 12 last year.