AN inmate accused of attempting to murder a prison officer in a Worcestershire prison is due to stand trial later this year.

David Bieber, also known as Nathan Wayne Coleman, is due to stand trial for the attempted murder of Alison Smith following an incident at HMP Long Lartin.

The 52-year-old appeared over videolink at Worcester Crown Court from HMP Wakefield on Friday. He is due to stand trial at the city's crown court on November 25 this year.

Bieber has denied the attempted murder of Alison Smith, wounding her with intent to do her grievous bodily harm and unauthorised possession in prison of a knife or offensive weapon (a pronged metal bar).

The charges relate to an incident at the prison in South Littleton, Evesham, on October 10, 2017.

Bieber, wearing a red jumper and glasses, was asked to confirm his name by the court clerk and if he could hear her clearly during the administrative hearing.

The defendant explained that he was attempting to organise legal representation.

Judge Nicolas Cartwright established that Bieber was in talks with two legal firms with a view to having one of them represent him at the trial.

He remains in custody until the trial.