A FATHER accused of murdering his four-year-old son and attempting to murder his teenage daughter in Huddersfield will stand trial next year.

Christopher Hawkins, 47, appeared for the first time at Bradford Crown Court yesterday charged with killing Ryan Hawkins at their home in Royd Street, Slaithwaite.

He is also charged with the attempted murder of his 14-year-old daughter Donna on the same day, September 23.

Ryan, who had just celebrated his fourth birthday, suffered nine stab wounds and was pronounced dead at hospital.

His sister was found with 23 stab wounds but survived the attack.

Appearing via a video link from Leeds Prison, Hawkins showed no emotion during the 10 minute hearing.

Wearing a brown sweatshirt and keeping his arms folded, he spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge Stephen Gullick, Recorder of Bradford, told Hawkins he would be remanded in custody to appear back in Bradford Crown Court on December 13.

The trial is due to take place in front of a High Court judge on February 25.