THIS is the 20-year-old man accused of the killing of Acomb pensioner Eilleen Smith.

Wayne Kenneth Cooper appeared before York Crown Court on a charge of murder.

Cooper, of Danesfort Avenue, Acomb, was expected to deny charges against him relating to the death of Mrs Smith, 72, in Hebden Rise, Acomb, on August 27, the court heard.

Cooper is alleged to have robbed and murdered the pensioner close to the Co-op Early to Late Shop at the junction of Hebden Rise and York Road.

He was remanded in custody and will next appear before a court on November 7.

Updated: 14:37 Friday, September 05, 2003