A MAN is to stand trial accused of murdering his wife.

Peter Maher allegedly killed Jeanna Maher, 51, at her home in Drumchapel last September 26.

The 57-year-old was back in the dock today at the High Court in Glasgow.

It emerged at an earlier hearing that he had sacked his then legal team.

He was today represented by advocate Gareth Jones, who pleaded not guilty on his behalf.

Mr Jones and prosecutor Steven Borthwick both agreed that a trial could now be set.

Lord Matthews fixed a trial due to begin in September. The case could last up to 10 days.

The murder accusation claims Mrs Maher – an Asda supermarket worker - had her wrists and ankles bound with ligatures before being repeatedly struck with a mallet or similar item.

Mr Maher is also charged with attempting to defeat the ends of justice after the alleged killing.

This includes a claim that he cleaned blood at the house and changed his clothes.

He is further accused of assaulting his wife on various occasions between January 2012 until the day before the alleged killing.

The charge states – amongst several accusations – that he punched her as well as threw a mobile phone and remote control at her.