A founding member of the activist group Raise the Colours has been charged with the murder of a pub owner following an altercation in Staffordshire. Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull, appeared in court on Thursday after being arrested in connection with the death of Matt O'Gara.
Incident Details
The incident occurred at the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street in Lichfield at approximately 11:25 PM on Sunday. Mr. O'Gara, a director of The Plough pub in Huddlesford, was reportedly punched during the altercation and later died in hospital three days later. A second victim was also assaulted and taken to hospital but has since been discharged.
Allison was arrested just after 5 AM on Monday and subsequently charged with murder and Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent.
Court Appearance
Wearing a blue long-sleeved top, Allison appeared before Judge Avik Mukherjee at a brief eight-minute hearing on Thursday. He spoke only to confirm his name when asked by the court clerk. The judge informed the defendant, who stood with his hands clasped in front of him, that his next appearance would be in September for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He was remanded into custody.
Judge Mukherjee stated: 'Billy Allison, will you stand please. Your next hearing is the first of September and you will be produced to court for that hearing.' Regarding the trial, he added: 'You have an obligation to come. You are expected to be here every day for your trial.' Allison nodded and was taken back to the cells by a custody officer.
Victim's Family Reaction
The family of Mr. O'Gara expressed their profound grief. His mother said: 'My beautiful son taken away from us so suddenly. Dad and me will never get over this. You were too young to leave us. Forever in our hearts.' His niece Jade added: 'My first best friend and my uncle. I will forever keep saying you were the BEST person.' Another family member posted on Facebook: 'My beautiful boy forever loved and missed always.'
Background of the Accused
Allison is a member of Raise the Colours and Operation Stop The Boats, a movement that crowdfunds to hoist the Union Flag and St George's Cross across UK town centres. He resides on Cropthorne Road in Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands.
The court heard that a trial date, expected to last two weeks, has been set for October 26. The case has drawn significant attention due to Allison's involvement with the activist group.
