Man denies gay cruising spot murder

1:12pm Friday 13th June 2008

Unemployed Mark Malone, 29 from Walton, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 50-year-old Peter Jeffrey Akers at the Old Bailey today.

On February 19 this year Mr Akers, who was known as Jeff, was attacked in the public toilets in Walton Lane, just off Walton Bridge, which is a well-known gay cruising area.

Mr Akers, a retired accountant from Wallington who lived with his male partner for the past 22 years, died from a single stab wound to the back. The weapon used was a large carving knife which was recovered from the scene.

Malone will next appear in court on October 20, when his trial is due to begin.