Man in court charged with murdering his father

Essex Police said it would maintain "a visible presence" in Witham, but there was no wider risk to the public

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of his 79-year-old father in Witham.

Essex Police said Thomas Collier was found with a suspected head injury at a property on Philip Road on 8 January, and later died in hospital.

His 41-year-old son Jimmy Collier, of the same address, appeared via video link at Chelmsford Crown Court on 20 January.

During the short hearing, Mr Collier's legal representative, Simon Gledhill, stated the family relationship between the defendant and victim.

Jimmy Collier appeared via video link at Chelmsford Crown Court

Following the incident, Essex Police said it would maintain "a visible police presence" across the town, but there was no wider risk to the public.

"We've had a dedicated team of officers investigating this incident since it was first reported to us," said Det Insp Richard Canning.

"A grieving family coming to terms with the awful circumstances of this matter remain at the heart of our investigation.

"I would urge against speculation while the court process gets under way."

Mr Collier, who was remanded in custody, is due to appear at a plea and trial preparation hearing on 24 February, with a provisional trial date set for 28 July.