A MAN from Winsford accused of murdering a one-year-old boy appeared in court for the first time today and indicated a not guilty plea. 

Jonathan Simpson was charged on Wednesday in connection with the death of Jacob Marshall, Merseyside Police said.

Simpson, 24, of no fixed abode but originally from Winsford, appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court today.

He indicated he would plead not guilty to the charge of murder and a trial is due to be set for July.

Jacob was taken to hospital from an address in Belsford Way, Speke, Liverpool, on July 12 last year, but later died in hospital from a head injury.

Officers were alerted to concerns for the child by the ambulance service.

In a tribute issued through police at the time, Jacob's family said: "All of our worlds have been crushed and our lives will never be the same again.

"We will talk of Jacob every day and of all the amazing memories we all got to make with him.

"He will live on in us all forever, our gorgeous baby Jacob."