A MAN accused of murdering a 33-year-old in Popley has pleaded not guilty.

Kenneth George Walker, 63, of Tasmania Close, is charged with stabbing Craig Laurie to death in Popley on Sunday, May 12.

He appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Friday, August 16, charged with the murder of Mr Laurie and the attempted murder of a second man in his 30s.

Walker pleaded not guilty to both charges.

READ MORE: Man arrested on suspicion of murder after fatal stabbing in Popley

Kenneth Walker has pleaded not guilty in court charged with the murder of Craig Laurie, pictured, in TasmaniaKenneth Walker has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Craig Laurie, pictured, in Tasmania Close, Popley (Image: Hampshire Constabulary/Newsquest)

He appeared in court with a second defendant, Jane Byrne, 52 of Egerton Drive, Basingstoke, who was charged with perverting the course of justice via a series of acts.

The court heard that she allegedly cleaned and disposed of bloodstained items.

It is also alleged that she assisted an offender by concealing Kenneth Walker and helping him to escape. 

Byrne pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Walker remains in custody while Byrne was granted conditional bail.

Their trial, expected to last four weeks, is due to take place in Winchester Crown Court, beginning on Monday, November 11.