Underfall Yard fire accused man appears in court

The fire caused damage to the Underfall Yard

A man accused of arson following a fire at a boat yard in Bristol has appeared in court.

Robert Boyd-Stevenson, of Headford Road in Knowle, appeared at Bristol Crown Court via video link charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

The 45-year-old did not enter a plea and was told to appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 28 July.

The fire on 5 May at Underfall Yard in the Hotwells area left several buildings and equipment badly damaged.

A provisional trial date for Mr Boyd-Stevenson has been set for 4 December.

Since the fire, the trust which runs Underfall Yard says it has been overwhelmed with donations

The boat yard plays a crucial in the operation and maintenance of the city's floating harbour, which dates back to the early 1800s.

It is home to maritime businesses involved in boatbuilding, marine engineering, metal working and training.

After the blaze John Raymond-Barker, Bristol Community Ferry Boats (BCFB) maintenance manager, said he had lost decades worth of equipment.

"Everything from 30 years of work has just gone, completely disappeared," he said.

"It's been a shock. We'll bounce back but it's been hard."