A MAN accused of stabbing a neighbour to death with a machete appeared for the first time at Liverpool Crown Court today.

Ian Martyn Holden faces a charge of murdering 57-year-old Mark Roberts on New Year’s Day.

Mr Roberts, who lived in a flat in Rakersfield Road, New Brighton was found by police at 10.25pm at the block of flats having been called by paramedics who were treating him.

He was rushed to Arrowe Park Hospital but passed away a short time later.

A post mortem examination revealed he had died from a single stab wound.

Holden, 38 who lives in the flat below the victim, did not apply for bail and was further remanded in custody by the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary, QC until February 3 when he is expected to enter his plea.

He appeared in court via video link from Altcourse Prison and spent much of the 15 minute hearing with his head in his hands.

A provisional date for his trial, expected to last two weeks, was fixed to begin on June 30.