A MAN is to stand trial charged with murdering an 85-year-old woman in her own home.

Robert Buczek has made his first public appearance in the dock at the High Court in Glasgow. The 24-year-old is accused of attacking Eleanor Whitelaw at her house in Morningside, Edinburgh, on July 11 this year.

It is claimed Buczek repeatedly struck the pensioner on the neck and body with a pair of scissors or similar implement.

The murder charge states Miss Whitelaw was left so severely injured that she died at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on July 28.

The accusation also alleges Buczak took stamps, a box of spoons, cameras and jewellery. His QC Brian McConnachie entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

Judge Lord Bannatyne set a trial due to take place next February in Glasgow.