THE teenager accused of murdering Charles Roger Millar in a residential street during the early hours has appeared in court for the second time in as many weeks.

Shelton Thulani Sibanda, 19, of no fixed abode, appeared at Bristol Crown Court this afternoon and spoke only to confirm his name. He did not enter a plea.

The 44-year-old victim, known by family and friends as Roger, died in hospital after being stabbed in Barnum Court, Rodbourne, at around 1.30am on Wednesday, June 6.

His family, not thought to be from Swindon, were not in court for the hearing.

Sibanda was remanded to appear again at Bristol Crown Court on September 12 for a plea and case management hearing.

At a hearing last week prosecutor Tessa Hingston said the police inquiry into the murder was still in the early stages.

She said: “The charge is murder and the date of the event is June 6 and so the investigation is still at an early stage.

“The defendant is a young man of previous good character.”

Four other men were arrested in connection with the murder and they have all since been released on police bail to a date in late July pending further inquries.

Police are still appealing for witnesses, and senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Matt Davey said: “We would still like to hear from anyone who has not yet spoken with us and we continue to urge witnesses to come forward.”

Anyone with information that may assist police is advised to call 101 or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.