LESLIE ROSS, A stonemason from Dromore in Co Down accused of killing two women in the town since 2007, has appeared at Armagh Magistrates Court. His lawyer told reporters he would be fighting the charges.

Ross is charged with killing  47-year-old Michelle Bickerstaff in April of last year and 50-year-old Margaret Weise in August 2007. He was detained for questioning by investigating officers on Tuesday morning.

Detectives have also prepared a file for the Northern Ireland Public Prosecution Service in relation to the death of Elizabeth McKee (52) in December 2002, according to a PSNI spokesperson.

According to the BBC, Ross was also charged with indecent assault, gross indecency with a child and indecently assaulting a female child. No application for bail was made at today’s short hearing.

Ross’s solicitor, Conleth Downey, made this statement to news crews outside the courthouse:

In essence, Mr Ross has indicated that he categorically and vehemently denies all allegations of wrong-doing, that has been pointed out to the court this morning, and at the earliest opportunity he will robustly defend all these matters.

The accused’s house in Dromore has been painted with graffiti since he was arrested for questioning earlier this week.

Police have appealed for anyone with information that could help the investigation to come forward.

The PSNI can be contacted on 0044 28 38315339, and Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.