A 37-year-old accused of killing a man in an alleged assault outside a pub has pleaded not guilty.

Craig Birtwistle, 37, of Crescent Avenue, Farnworth, submitted his plea today, Friday, October 27, at Manchester Crown Court.

He is charged with murdering Colin Moore, thought to be in his 50s, on Tuesday during an alleged assault outside The Bradford Arms in Buckley Lane, Farnworth.

Shortly before 6.30pm officers were called to reports of the incident and Mr Moore was pronounced dead at the scene.

Appearing at court via video link, Birtwistle spoke to confirm his name and entered his not guilty plea.

He will be kept in custody and is set to go on trial on April 16.