Man accused of killing child challenges evidence

LAWYERS for a man accused of murdering a nine-year-old girl in Northern Ireland 28 years ago launched a legal challenge yesterday against the evidence in the case.

Robert Black, 62, is charged with kidnapping and killing Jennifer Cardy near Lisburn, Co Down. His solicitor has already said that his Scottish-born client is denying the charges.

Black was due to be arraigned, but a lawyer for the accused told Belfast Crown Court that he was making an application, challenging the evidence in the case.

Submissions will be made during March, with Black due to appear by video link for a hearing at Laganside Courts in Belfast on 16 April.

Jennifer was cycling to a friend's house near her home in Ballinderry, Co Antrim, when she was abducted on 12 August, 1981.

Her red bike was discovered in a field beside a hedge near her home and her body was found six days later by anglers at McKee's Dam, near Hillsborough.

Black, currently resident in England, spoke only to confirm his identity during yesterday's short hearing.

With grey hair and wearing a bright blue jumper, he stood expressionless and was flanked by prison officers.