Man in court over death of man 'hit' outside bar

A man has appeared in court, charged with murder and causing grievous bodily harm.

Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during the hearing at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Wednesday.

His appearance came after police said they were called to reports of two men being punched at the Ricco and Loren bar in Market Street, Lichfield, at 23:25 BST on Sunday.

One of the men, Matthew O'Gara, died in hospital on Tuesday afternoon. The second victim, Adam Cooper, was also taken to hospital but had since been discharged, according to police.

"As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days," a spokesperson for the Ricco and Loren bar said in a post on social media.

"We have been working closely with the police in this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time.

"We are sending all our love, thoughts, and best wishes to everyone affected, we will be closed for a few days to give our staff some time, thank you."

The Plough pub, where O' Gara was a business partner, was also closed on Tuesday and confirmed they would be closed on Wednesday as well.

"At this difficult time, we would like to give our staff and the family involved the time, privacy, and respect they need," they said in a post on Facebook.

"Thank you for your understanding and support."

A number of firms across the hospitality industry have commented on the post, sending their condolences to those who knew O' Gara.

"Like many people across Lichfield, I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of a well-known and much-loved local businessman following the incident in the city centre this weekend," said district council leader Doug Pullen.

"My thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone at The Plough during what will be an incredibly difficult time."

He added that Lichfield was a "safe and welcoming city" which had a "strong sense of community".

"In the days ahead, I know that we will show kindness and respect, especially towards those grieving such a heartbreaking loss," he added.

"Our community stands together with everyone affected."

Allison is due to appear at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday.

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