A MAN has appeared in court charged with starting a fire which killed five animals including a puppy.

David Grothier, 49, denied arson with intent to endanger life and attempted arson after a blaze at a block of flats in Gazelle Court, Colchester, on Sunday when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court.

Grothier of Chinook, Colchester, was told the alleged offences were too serious to be dealt with at a magistrates court and he will appear at Ipswich Crown Court on April 25 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

Caroline Woodley, representing Grothier, said he plans to deny the charges and believes he is the victim of a malicious campaign by his neighbours.

Pets belonging to Mr Hymus including a three-month old German Shepherd puppy, Shadow, as well as a cat, a chinchilla and two budgies died in the fire.

Grothier was remanded in custody until his next court appearance.