THE trial of a man accused of the murder of a transgender woman has been adjourned until next year.

Martin Saberi denies the murder of 51-year-old Amy Griffiths, found dead at her Droitwich flat. He further denies wounding and possession of a knife.

However, the trial of the 53-year-old was adjourned at an administrative hearing at Worcester Crown Court yesterday following an application by the defence who are seeking more detail regarding a report.

The new trial date was fixed at the same court and is scheduled to take place on May 18 next year with a four week time estimate.

Amy Griffiths was found dead at her flat in Chalverton Court, Droitwich on January 14 this year after suffering head and throat injuries.

Saberi denies wounding with intent against a second alleged victim, Charlotte Taylor, and possession of an offensive weapon without lawful authority or reasonable excuse on January 11 this year.

Injuries are said by the prosecution to have been inflicted upon Amy Griffiths with a baseball bat, via strangulation and with a knife to the throat.

The case is expected to involve the use of the court's videolink facility.

The defendant appeared over the link on Tuesday.

However, Saberi, previously of Brackley Close, Wallington, Surrey, did not appear at the administrative hearing yesterday because it was not deemed necessary for him to attend.

The Worcester News cannot publish details of the legal arguments discussed at court. A jury was not sworn.

Judge Robert Juckes QC, the Recorder of Worcester, said: "We have absolutely established that the case can he heard here."

Rachel Brand QC prosecutes and Joe Stone QC defends. They are supported by junior counsel Siobhan Collins for the prosecution and Paul Prior for the defence.