A 69-year-old man has been held on remand over the alleged murder of missing Girvan resident Patricia Henry.

George Kenneth Metcalff entered no plea when he faced a string of charges including alleged murder, rape and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

The Paisley resident also faced further charges of indecent assault and rape, assault to severe injury, five charges of assault to injury and a further assault allegation.

He was committed for further examination and remanded in custody when he appeared before Ayr Sheriff Court today (Wednesday).

He will return to court at a later date.