THREE men have appeared in court and denied murdering a courier firm boss.

Harold Richardson, aged 58, of Towncourt Road, Orpington, was released on bail by Judge Christopher Moss after appearing at the Old Bailey on August 11.

John O'Flynn, aged 52, from Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, and Terrence Conaghan, aged 53, from Glasgow, appeared via video link from Belmarsh Prison, where they are remanded in custody.

George Francis, 63, was shot at least four times in the head and chest in Lynton Road, Bermondsey, on May 14, 2003.

His murder is said to be the ninth death linked to the £26m Brinks-Mat bullion raid in 1983.

He was questioned by police over allegations he helped launder money from the gold robbery.

The three men are due to stand trial at the Old Bailey on November 6.