A man is to stand trial charged with murdering a pensioner in his home.

Steven Sidebottom, 25, faced the accusation at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday

Sidebottom is accused of killing Brian McKandie at his cottage in Rothienorman, Aberdeenshire in March 2016.

Prosecutors claim the 67-year-old was repeatedly struck on the head and body with "unidentified blunt implement or implements".

It is further alleged Sidebottom seized hold of Mr McKandie, dragged him and robbed the man of a "sum of money".

Ian Duguid QC, defending, pleaded not guilty on his behalf.

He lodged special defences of alibi and incrimination.

Lord Mulholland set a four-week trial due to take place in next January in Aberdeen.

A further hearing will take place before then in November in Edinburgh.

Sidebottom, also of Rothienorman, will remain on bail.