Man accused of murdering Wakefield pensioner in house fire makes crown-court appearance

A young man could be put on trial early next year accused of murdering an elderly woman who died in a house fire.

Joshua Hodlin appeared at Leeds Crown Court this morning where a preliminary trial date was set for January 12.

Hodlin, 23, appeared over a video link from HMP Leeds where is being held on remand. He only spoke to confirm his name.

He was remanded back into custody and is due to appear again on September 7 where he will be expected to enter a plea.

Should the trial go ahead, it could last around a week.

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Hodlin is accused of starting the blaze at the property on Yew Tree Walk, Knottingley, on the evening of Sunday, July 5.

Shirley Hodlin, 75, died in the fire.

Hodlin, of Harewood Avenue, was arrested and charged shortly afterwards.