A man will stand trial charged with the rape and murder of a mother in Aberdeen.

Bala Chinda is accused of killing Jessica McGraa at a Union Terrace flat on February 11.

Prosecutors claimed the 25 year-old forced her on to a bed, held her down and had sex with her.

The rape and murder charge further alleges he "inflicted blunt force trauma" to her head and neck before forcing the 36-year-old's face into a pillow.

Chinda reportedly held her face there and as a result, or "by other means to the prosecutor unknown", asphyxiated Ms McGraa.

He faces a separate accusation of attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

It is claimed Chinda stole two phones and a key from Ms McGraa after the alleged rape and murder.

The charge states he got rid of the mobiles as well as a handset he is said to have used to contact Ms McGraa.

Prosecutors claim this was done to "conceal and destroy evidence" linking Chinda to Ms McGraa and the crime.

Ian Duguid QC, defending, pleaded not guilty on his behalf during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Monday.

Judge Lady Rae set a trial due to begin in December. he case could last up to ten days.