Man to appear at crown court charged with murder of Staffordshire businessman
Billy Allison appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre in Stoke-on-Trent today where the case was sent to Stafford Crown Court.
A man will appear at Stafford Crown Court tomorrow charged with the murder of a businessman in Lichfield.
Billy Allison, aged 36 is charged with the murder of Matthew O’Gara who died in hospital yesterday after allegedly being attacked at the Ricco and Loren bar in Market Street, Lichfield on Sunday night.
Allison, of Cropthorne Road, Shirley, Solihull, is also accused of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent for an assault on Adam Cooper in the same incident.
Mr Cooper was taken to hospital and later discharged.
Allison appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre in Stoke-on-Trent today where the case was sent to Stafford Crown Court.
Stafford Crown Court confirmed the name of the victims - Matthew O’Gara had connections to The Plough Pub in Huddlesford, near Lichfield.
Staffordshire Police are appealing for anyone with information about the attack to get in contact using the online portal, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Tributes have poured in on social media following Mr O’Gara’s death.
The bar at the centre of the incident, Ricco and Loren, said it was “devastated” by recent events and confirmed it is working closely with police.
It said in a Facebook post: “As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days. 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 also announced a temporary closure as those involved come to terms with the tragedy.
It said: “Due to some very sad news involving one of our business partners, we will be closed today and tomorrow.
“At this difficult time, we would like to give our staff and the family involved the time, privacy, and respect they need.
“Thank you for your understanding and support.”