Man denies murder of Boston bar manager Adi Whiting - a trial date has been set

Adrian Whiting, 35, died in hospital two weeks after the incident at the Carpenters Arms in Witham Street, Boston, on January 14.

Maksim Iliev, 35, was originally charged with grievous bodily harm wounding with intent, but was today charged with murdering Adrian Whiting on January 24 - the day Mr Whiting died in hospital.

Iliev, of Union Street, Boston, this afternoon appeared before Judge Simon Hirst at Lincoln Crown Court.

Wearing a grey t-shirt and jeans, Iliev pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Whiting on January 24 this year.

He also denied a second charge of manslaughter against Mr Whiting on the same date.

The prosecution were represented by Jonathan Cox and Iliev, who followed the hearing through a Bulgarian interpreter, was represented by defence barrister Chris Jeyes.

Judge Hirst remanded Iliev back into custody and adjourned the case for trial.

The case has been listed for a trial beginning at Lincoln Crown Court on July 15. It is expected to last seven days.

A 34-year-old woman who has also been charged with assisting an offender in connection with the investigation into the death of Mr Whiting also appeared before Judge Hirst.

Katya Tsoneva, of Red Lion Street, Boston, was arrested on February 15 and charged on February 16.

That offence is alleged to have taken place between January 14 and January 25 this year.

Tsoneva, who was represented by Tara McCarthy, entered a not guilty plea to the offence and was granted bail by Judge Hirst.

A pre-trial hearing will take place at Lincoln Crown Court on June 21.