The founder of patriotic campaign group Raise the Colours has appeared in court charged with murder following a fatal altercation at a cocktail bar in Lichfield. Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull in the West Midlands, is accused of killing popular pub landlord Matt O’Gara and seriously injuring another man during an alleged fight at Ricco and Loren cocktail bar on Sunday evening.

Allison, who is known for his involvement in the Raise the Colours campaign promoting the display of Union Jack and St George’s flags in public spaces, appeared before Stafford Crown Court on Friday morning.

He has been charged with murder as well as causing grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with the incident.

During the brief hearing, the court was told a trial lasting approximately two weeks has been scheduled to begin on October 26.

The judge informed Allison, who stood in the dock with his hands clasped in front of him, that he would next appear before the court on September 1 for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He was remanded into custody.

Mr O’Gara, who ran The Plough pub in Huddlesford near Lichfield, died on Tuesday after suffering serious injuries during the disturbance.

A second man was also taken to hospital following the incident but has since been discharged.

Tributes have continued to pour in for Mr O’Gara, who friends and family described as a well-loved figure in the local community.

His mother, Jane, wrote in an emotional social media post: “My beautiful son taken away from us so suddenly. Dad and me will never get over this. You were far too young to leave us. Forever in our hearts.”

His niece Jade also paid tribute, describing him as her “first best friend.”

“You were the best person,” she wrote. “We will miss you forever and love you always.”

Lichfield District Council leader Doug Pullen said the news had deeply affected residents across the city.

“Like many people across Lichfield, I was deeply saddened to hear about the death of a well-known and much-loved local businessman following the incident in the city centre,” he said.

“My thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues and everyone connected to The Plough during what will be an incredibly difficult time.

“Lichfield is a safe and welcoming city with a strong community spirit, which is why incidents like this are felt so deeply by so many people.”