A man accused of stabbing a college receptionist to death while wearing a Phantom of the Opera mask appeared at the Old Bailey yesterday.

A MAN accused of stabbing a college receptionist to death while wearing a Phantom of the Opera mask appeared at the Old Bailey yesterday.

Rafi Ullah, 29, allegedly murdered Sehrish Waqar Sheikh, 23, at St George's International College in Plaistow, east London.

Ms Sheikh had returned to London after living in the Glasgow area for a year with her family. She worked on Asian radio station Awaz FM in 2006, based on the south side of the city, where she followed her interest in media and broadcasting before returning to London. It is understood she lived in Rutherglen during this time.

Mr Ullah is also accused of knifing a second woman, 23-year-old Kiran Asghar, in the shoulder during the attack on September 22, 2008.

The defendant, of Jesmond Avenue, Wembley, appeared in court charged with murder and causing grievous bodily harm.

Mr Ullah spoke only to confirm his name and did not enter pleas to the charges.

He was remanded in custody by Judge Jeremy Roberts, QC, pending a further hearing on February 16.

Ms Sheikh was engaged to be married at the time of her death. She died after suffering multiple stab wounds to her chest and neck.