Tony Eastlake

A MAN charged with the murder of a popular flower seller has pleaded not guilty.

James Peppiatt appeared at the Old Bailey on Monday charged with the murder of Tony Eastlake.

On a video link from Belmarsh Prison, the 21-year-old denied fatally stabbing Mr Eastlake.

The florist, 55, died in May. He had for many years run a stand near Essex Road train ­station. Hundreds turned out to offer condolences at a vigil held there after his death.

Mr Eastlake, the defendant’s late mother’s partner, had started working at the stall aged just 14 as a Saturday job, while also helping his father who had a spot in the Nine Elms flower market.

Mr Peppiatt will stand trial at the Old Bailey in July next year, the hearing was told.