A LEIGH man accused of the murder of mother-of-two Linda Hankey denied the charge at Liverpool Crown Court.

But Shaun Higgins, 23, of Church Street, pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicle theft causing her death and causing death by driving while disqualified.

The Court heard that the prosecution still intend to pursue the murder allegation and a trial, expected to last five to seven days, is to begin on July 5.

Ms Hankey, 42, a mother-of-two, died from serious head injuries after she was hit by her own car, an MG ZR , as it was being stolen in Prestt Grove, Worsley Mesnes on January 14. She died in hospital the next day.

Higgins appeared before the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Henry Globe, QC, via video link equipment from Forest Bank prison. Friends and relatives of the victim sat in the public gallery.

Higgins was further remanded in custody to await his trial.