A man accused of murdering a fellow prison inmate has been told his trial will take place next year.

James Desborough, 39, from Cornwall appeared before Exeter Crown Court on Friday accused of murdering Steven Kempster, 65, who police said had been found dead in his cell in HMP Exeter on Monday.

Mr Desborough appeared at court via video link from prison and spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge James Patrick confirmed a plea and trial preparation hearing would take place on 16 October and fixed a trial to begin on 16 March.