A THIRD person has appeared in court charged with murdering four children who died in a house fire.

David Worrall, aged 25, appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court this morning charged with four counts of murder, three counts of attempt murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life.

The charges relate to the house fire in Jackson Street, Walkden, which broke out at around 5am on Monday.

The four counts of murder are in relation to Demi Pearson, aged 15, Brandon Pearson, aged eight and Lacie Pearson aged seven who all died in the blaze and three-year-old Lia Pearson who died yesterday in hospital.

The hearing lasted around two minutes and Worrall, who gave his address as no fixed abode, wore a grey tracksuit.

He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and nationality and was represented by Margaret McCormack.

District Judge Khalid Qureshi said the case was too serious to the Magistrates’ Court and sent it up to the crown court to be heard.

Zac Bolland, aged 23 of Blackleach Drive, Walkden and Courtney Brierley, aged 20 of Worsley Avenue have also been charged with four counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life.

They were due to appear at Manchester Crown Court today in connection with the offences but the hearing was adjourned for all three of the defendants to appear together tomorrow morning.

Their 35-year-old mother of the children who died in the fire remains in hospital for treatment.

Two 16-year-old boys were able to escape the blaze.