The trial of a man charged with the rape and murder of a woman at an Aberdeen flat will take place in the new year.

Bala Chinda is accused of killing Nkechi McGraa - also known as Jessica - at a home on Union Terrace on February 11.

The 25-year-old had been expected to stand trial next week but during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, a new trial date was set for January.

Prosecutors claim the 25-year-old forced Ms McGraa 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.

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

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

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

The charge states he disposed of the mobiles and 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.

Chinda previously pleaded not guilty to the accusations.