A man is to stand trial charged with murdering an Aberdeenshire pensioner in his home.
Steven Sidebottom, 25, yesterday faced the accusation at the High Court in Glasgow.
Sidebottom is accused of killing Brian McKandie at his cottage in Rothienorman, Aberdeenshire in March 2016.
Prosecutors claim the 67 year-old was repeatedly struck on the head and body with “unidentified blunt implement or implements”.
It is further alleged Sidebottom seized hold of Mr McKandie, dragged him and robbed the man of a “sum of money”.
Ian Duguid QC, defending, pled not guilty on his behalf and lodged special defences of alibi and incrimination.
Lord Mulholland set a four week trial due, which is due to take place in January 2019 in Aberdeen.
A further hearing will take place before then in November in Edinburgh.
Sidebottom, also of Rothienorman, remains on bail.
Ms Robison said: “We are seeking to improve how quickly defibrillators are available through co-responding by emergency services.
“However, in terms of extending this to the Fire Service, that discussion is part of on-going negotiations between the fire service and the Fire Brigades Union.
“We encourage them to secure an outcome that’s in the best interests of our firefighters and communities.”
