Lawyers for a man accused of murdering a nine-year-old girl in Northern Ireland 28 years ago mounted a legal challenge today against the evidence in the case.
Robert Black (62) is charged with kidnapping and killing Jennifer Cardy near Lisburn, Co Down.
Mr Black's solicitor has already said his Scottish-born client is denying the charges.
Mr Black was due to be arraigned, but a lawyer for the accused man told Belfast Crown Court he was making an application, challenging the evidence in the case.
Submissions will be made during March, with Mr Black due to appear by video link for a hearing at Laganside Courts in Belfast on April 16th.
Jennifer was cycling to a friend’s house near her home in Ballinderry, Co Antrim, when she was abducted on August 12th, 1981. Her red bike was discovered in a field beside a hedge, near her home, and her body was found six days later by anglers at McKee’s Dam, near Hillsborough.
Mr Black, currently resident in England, spoke only to confirm his identity during today’s short hearing.
With grey hair and wearing a bright blue jumper, he stood expressionless and was flanked by prison officers.
PA