A MAN will stand trial for attempted murder and robbery following an incident in Westcliff.

Dusan Vavrek appeared via video link from HMP Chelmsford to deny attempted murder, robbery, and three charges of possession of a bladed article.

Sitting at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday, Her Honour Judge Leigh told Vavrek to stop vaping during the court hearing.

The court heard how Vavrek, 42, allegedly attempted to murder 74-year-old Michael Burke on Sunday, March 31 in Westcliff.

Vavrek is also accused of possessing an axe and a Stanley knife and of robbing Mr Burke of between £800 and £900 of cash on the same date.

A final charge of possessing a push dagger in Carnarvon Road on Wednesday, April 3, was also levelled at Vavrek, of no fixed address.

The defendant, who spoke through a Czech interpreter, denied all five charges and will appear before the court on Friday, August 16, for another hearing.

Should the matter proceed to trial, it is expected to take place on Thursday, September 5.