A MAN accused of murdering school teacher Sally Jessop is to stand trial this summer.

Peter Hutchings was due to enter a plea when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court by TV link with Elmey Prison, Sheppey, on Friday.

But the hearing was adjourned after John O'Higgings, defending, told Judge Andrew Patience, QC, that the 59-year-old had requested a change of solicitor.

Balding Hutchings, wearing a blue jumper, said he now wished to be represented by a firm of solicitors in Manchester.

The judge said the firm would have to write to the court and the matter would be considered.

Unemployed Hutchings, of Harcourt Drive, Canterbury, is alleged to have killed his 48-year-old former partner, who taught at Joy Lane Juniors in Whitstable, on New Year’s Eve.

Judge Patience set a provisional trial date for June 19. The hearing for Hutchings to enter a plea was adjourned until April 13.