THREE murder accused are to stand trial charged with killing a man in his own home.

Harry Hood (44), Dale Russell (35) and Ross Russell (34) are charged with fatally attacking Arthur Green at a house in Prestwick, Ayrshire last November 19.

Prosecutors allege the 60 year-old was kicked, punched and stamped upon.

It is also claimed Mr Green was repeatedly struck on the head with a rod or similar item.

The murder charge further states “by means to the prosecutor unknown” violence was inflicted upon Mr Green.

The trio face a separate allegation – that between the day of the alleged murder and December 12 2014 – they attempted to defeat the ends of justice.

This includes a claim that, knowing police would be investigating, footwear belonging to Ross Russell was destroyed and also a car was valeted.

They appeared for a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday.

Lawyers for Hood, of Ayr, Dale Russell, of Girvan and Ross Russell, of Maidens, all Ayrshire, entered not guilty pleas.

Judge Lord Boyd set a trial due to start next May in Edinburgh.

Bail was continued for Hood and the Russells.