Murder charge men may face summer trial
TWO men accused of murder following an incident outside a pub could go on trial in the summer.
Daniel Forster and Michael Nield, both 24, appeared before a judge at Preston Crown Court on Thursday, December 27.
They were charged with murder following the death of Rochdale man Daniel Hogan in Uppermill in Saddleworth on Friday, December 21. No pleas were entered but administrative matters were dealt with.
The case will be heard next at Manchester Crown Court on Friday, January 25, for another preliminary hearing.
A trial date at the same court was set for Monday, June 10. Both men were remanded in custody.
Mr Forster, of Ashfield Crescent, Springhead, Oldham, and Mr Nield, of Society Street, Shaw, Oldham, made their first court appearance at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Christmas Eve.
They were charged after police were called to an incident outside a village pub on Friday, December 21.
Mr Hogan - described by his family as the ‘BFG’ [big friendly giant] reportedly collapsed with head injuries at around 11.30pm, police said.
He was given first aid before being rushed to hospital, but later died.
Paying tribute after his death, Daniel’s aunt, Carol Strand, said: “Daniel was one of the most thoughtful and lovable people you could ever meet.
“He was known locally by many as the ‘BFG’ and would do anything for his friends and family.”
She told how Daniel’s death is the second tragedy to hit the family, after his step-father recently passed away.