The man accused of murdering Sian O'Callaghan and Becky Godden-Edwards is likely to face trial next year, a court heard today.

Taxi driver Christopher Halliwell faced Bristol Crown Court today just two days after appearing before magistrates for the first time accused of the murder of Miss Godden-Edwards.

The new charge against the 47-year-old alleges that he murdered Miss Godden-Edwards in Swindon, Wiltshire, on a day between December 27 2002 and January 1 2006.

Halliwell appeared for the 10-minute preliminary hearing via videolink from Long Lartin prison in Worcestershire.

He spoke only three times: to confirm his name, that he could hear proceedings, and, at the conclusion of the hearing, that he had understood what had been said.

Balding Halliwell, who wore a grey jumper, sat behind a table and looked straight ahead towards the video camera.

The court heard that a plea and case management hearing has already been fixed for July 14.

Judge Neil Ford QC, Recorder of Bristol, granted a defence application for leading counsel and said the trial would be next year.

"What I will say is if this is a contested matter, the case will be tried - unless there is good reason why it shouldn't - in January next year," he told the court.

"It would have to be tried by a High Court judge."

Halliwell, of Ashbury Avenue, Swindon, Wilts, did not make an application for bail and Judge Ford remanded him in custody.

He said: "Mr Halliwell, the next hearing in this case will be July 14."

Halliwell replied: "Thank you very much."