A husband accused of killing his pregnant wife 20 years ago denied her murder today.

Debbie Griggs, 34, was four-and-a-half months pregnant when she disappeared from her home in Deal on May 5, 1999.

The mum-of-three, who was last seen in Walmer, has never been found.

Her husband Andrew Griggs, who now lives in Dorset with another wife, was charged with Debbie's murder on March 12 this year, almost 20 years after she vanished.

Griggs, 56, entered a plea of not guilty today at the Old Bailey via videolink from Bournemouth Crown Court.

Wearing a blue shirt, he spoke only to confirm his name and to enter his plea.

Griggs was released on bail under strict bail conditions after his current wife paid a £70,000 surety in April.

Judge Maura McGowan QC set a trial date for October 2 at Canterbury Crown Court. The trial could last up to four weeks.

Addressing Griggs, she said: “You will remain on all the conditions that currently exist.”

Griggs, of St Leonards, south east Dorset, nodded in response.

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