FOUR people, including a man, his mother and sister, have appeared in court in connection with a murder probe into the death of Andrew Heath, who was killed in a suspected arson attack on his flat.

Daniel Martin, aged 23, of Canterbury Road in Ronkswood, Worcester, is accused of the murder of 52-year-old Mr Heath.

He appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court in courtroom number one at 11am, to have the charge formally read out to him.

Also appearing were Teresa Martin, aged 44, of Rodborough Close in Warndon, and Sarah Martin aged 26, of Rodborough Drive, on charges of perverting the course of justice.

Matthew Davies, aged 28, and also of Rodborough Drive, also had a charge of perverting the course of justice read to him.

All four were remanded in custody to appear at Worcester Crown Court on Friday, October 5, for a preliminary hearing preceding a full trial.

Mr Heath was allegedly murdered after a suspected arson attack on his first-floor flat in Chedworth Close, Warndon, in the early hours of December 14.