A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering a man in Pitsea and drug offences.

Edward Roberts, 47, of St Mary’s Crescent, Pitsea, appeared before Southend Magistrates’ Court yesterday following a police probe into the death.

Roberts was charged with murder and conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine in relation to two separate investigations.

During the short hearing before Southend magistrates, Roberts stood in the dock wearing a grey tracksuit and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

He did not enter a plea to any of the charges before him.

His court appearance follows the death of a 67-year-old man from Pitsea.

The man, who has not yet been named by Essex Police, was assaulted in the area of Malyons Mews, Pitsea, on Wednesday September 15.

He suffered a head injury.

He died in hospital the following day, police officers said.

Roberts will again appear at Basildon Crown Court today (Tuesday) in connection with the murder charge.

Roberts will then appear at the same court on Monday, October 18 in connection with the drugs charges.