A MAN has denied murdering a 78-year-old woman who was allegedly hit by an ashtray while walking past a Burnley pub.

Anthony Clark, 21, of Brunshaw Road, Burnley, pleaded not guilty to murdering Eileen O'Meara when he appeared at Preston Crown Court.

Mrs O'Meara, from Hart Street, died after she was injured while passing a pub on Parker Lane on June 18 this year.

The case against Clark was adjourned by Judge Peter Openshaw QC for trial in December.

Clark was remanded on bail with conditions, including one not to enter licensed premises in Burnley.