A MAN has denied murdering a war veteran after breaking into his house.

Daniel Crompton, aged 24, appeared via video link at Manchester Crown Court to enter pleas this morning.

Crompton, of no fixed address, is accused of murdering Frank Worsley during an incident at the alleged victim's home in Longfield Road, Daubhill, in the early hours of August 3.

Crompton, who wore grey tracksuit bottoms and a grey sweatshirt with a green Puma logo, spoke only to confirm his identity and enter pleas.

He pleaded not guilty to murder, but admitted burgling the 87-year-old's home on August 3, when a chequebook was stolen.

He also admitted stealing computer equipment and a TV from a home in St Helens Road, Daubhill, on August 2.

Crompton will stand trial on Tuesday, March 4. The trial is expected to last four days.

In a separate case, Beverley Hardman, aged 25, of Caverleigh Close, Daubhill, also appeared in court today charged with helping Crompton to evade police.

Hardman, who wore a smart short-sleeved shirt dress to court, cried throughout the hearing.

She did not enter a plea, and her case was adjourned until Tuesday, February 4.

She is alleged to have taken Crompton to an address in Grove Street, Halliwell, then later that day told police she did not know where he was. She was granted bail.