A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a grandfather who died following an alleged assault outside a village pub in the Midlands.
Court Appearance and Charges
Nathan Gothard, 36, appeared at Leicester Crown Court via video link from HMP Leicester on Wednesday, January 7. The defendant, of Church Street in Appleby Magna, is accused of killing 66-year-old David Darke.
During the brief nine-minute hearing, Gothard spoke only to confirm his name and that he could hear the judge. He did not enter a plea to the murder charge.
Defence barrister Philip Cowburn indicated that no application for bail would be made on behalf of the defendant. Judge Adrienne Lucking KC subsequently remanded Gothard into custody.
Tragic Incident and Family Tribute
The court heard that Mr Darke suffered a serious head injury outside the Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire, on December 21. He was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham but died days later on Saturday, December 27.
In a heartfelt statement, Mr Darke's family paid tribute to a devoted family man. They described him as a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys.
"Dave was a much-loved brother and a dear friend," the family said. "He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all. He was a devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking."
The statement continued: "His life was tragically cut short and he's now reunited with his loving, caring parents. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Judge Lucking confirmed that a provisional trial date has been set for April 27. The trial is estimated to last seven days, with jurors potentially needing a second or third week for deliberations.
Gothard, who wore a grey tracksuit during the hearing, is next due to appear in court to enter a plea on January 26.
The case continues as police and prosecutors prepare evidence for what is expected to be a closely watched trial at Leicester Crown Court later this year.
