A WOMAN has denied setting fire to a house and murdering a man in Colchester.

Fred Payne was overcome by smoke during the early hours of the morning after a fire began at his Rochdale Way home.

Lisa Connelly, who had been staying with him, has been accused of starting the fire.

Connelly appeared in front of Judge Patricia Lynch QC at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday via video link from HMP Peterborough where she is being held on remand.

The 42-year-old, of Rochdale Way, Greenstead, Colchester, denied one count of murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life, or being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

The 78-year-old Mr Payne was at his home during the morning of Sunday, September 4 when he was trapped by the fire.

Neighbours and firefighters attempted to save him but could not get him out in time.

It is alleged a bonfire inside the home was started by Connelly.

A trial date has been provisionally set for a four week trial beginning on February 27 next year.

During Monday's hearing Connelly admitted stealing a handbag from a home in Blackberry Road, Colchester, on June 13, a separate matter.

Sentencing was delayed until after the murder trial.

A 45-year-old man from Colchester, also arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released from his bail without charge.

Attempts are still being made by Essex Police to contact the family of Mr Payne.

Anybody that can help officers trace Mr Payne’s relations is asked to contact the Brentwood Major Investigation Team on Essex Police 101.