A SOMERSET man accused of murdering his mother will face trial in the summer.

Alexander McDonald, 27, appeared at Exeter Crown Court last week where he was expected to enter a plea to the charge that he killed his mother, Catherine, at home they shared in Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton, on September 30 last year.

However, the case was adjourned without a plea at the request of the defence.

Mr McDonald was remanded in custody ahead of a trial due to take place in June.

Post mortem tests showed Mrs McDonald, 57, died as a result of stabbing and asphyxiation.