A MAN has appeared in court accused of murder after an alleged assault at a Southampton pub.

Harry Joyce, 27, of Barry Road, Southampton, appeared before Winchester Crown Court this morning (Wednesday), after being charged with the murder of Perry Cardy.

As previously reported, police say Mr Cardy, 52, was assaulted in the Bittern pub on Thornhill Park Road, Southampton, at about 9.50pm on Friday night.

He was rushed to hospital but died on Sunday.

More than half a dozen people were in the public gallery to witness the brief court hearing, where Joyce spoke only to confirm his identity.

Judge Keith Cutler adjourned the hearing, setting a preliminary trial date of October 2.

Joyce is expected to enter a plea to the charge of murder at a hearing on July 10.