THE 16-year-old boy accused of killing Richard Mannington Bowes in the August riots has denied murder.

The Hounslow youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of attacking the 68-year-old at about 10.30pm on August 8.

The pensioner, of Haven Green, was trying to stamp out a fire in a dustbin in Springbridge Road, Ealing, when he was knocked unconscious.

He was put on a life support machine but died three days later. A post-mortem examination revealed he died from head injuries.

The teenager appeared at the Old Bailey this morning (24) where he admitted four counts of burglary at William Hill, Tesco Express, Blockbuster and Fatboys Thai restaurant.

He appeared alongside his 33-year-old mother who was charged with perverting the course of justice. She denied the charges.

He is due to stand trial at the Old Bailey on March 12. 

Local politicians of all parties, including council leader Julian Bell and Mayor John Gallagher, joined residents to pay their respects at Mr Bowes' funeral in September.