A MAN has appeared in court charged with the murder of antique dealer Peter Battle.
Mr Battle, 56, was found dead at his cottage in Full Sutton earlier this month.
Graham Richardson, 26, from Malton, North Yorkshire, was charged on Friday with murder and theft from a dwelling after five days of questioning by detectives.
A post mortem revealed Mr Battle died from head injuries.
Mr Richardson appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court represented by Harry Bayman, a solicitor with York firm Sykes, Lee and Brydson.
He was charged with the murder of Mr Battle between December 29 and January 1.
It is also alleged he stole silver items and coins of an unknown value from Mr Battle's home, Whisker Cottage, between December 29 and January 28.
Mr Richardson, who is receiving legal aid, did not enter a plea.
It was not within the court's power to grant bail, so he will remain in custody until an appearance at Hull Crown Court on Wednesday at 10am.