A MAN has appeared in court today charged with the murder of former soldier Graham McKenna and the attempted murder of his 14-year-old son, Michael.

Gary Carl Finlay, 46, of Alexandra Road, Birkenhead, appeared before Wirral Magistrates this morning.

Dressed in jeans and a blue polo shirt with a white trim, and wearing a pair of glasses, Finlay spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

Mr McKenna died on January 10 after he and his son were attacked on their way to catch a bus to watch an Everton football match.

Finlay was remanded into custody to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on March 19.

There was no application for bail.