George Barker death: Suspect charged with London gym murder

Image source, Met Police

Image caption, Police say Charles (Charlie) Riddington travelled to Germany from Manchester after the killing

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of George Barker, who was stabbed outside a gym run by actor Idris Elba's kickboxing trainer.

Charles Riddington is accused of killing the 24-year-old from South Darenth, Kent, at the Double K Gym in Bexley, south-east London, in 2016.

Mr Riddington was recently extradited to the UK from the Turkish-controlled part of Cyprus.

He was remanded in custody after a hearing at Thames Magistrates' Court.

Image source, Family handout

Image caption, George Barker died from stab wounds to his chest and abdomen

Mr Riddington is also charged with three counts of possessing an offensive weapon. During the hearing he spoke only to confirm his name and address.

He is next due to appear at the Central Criminal Court on 13 November for a bail hearing.

The Double K Gym is run by Kieran Keddle, who trained Thor and Luther star Elba, ahead of a professional fight in Thailand in October 2016.

Image caption, Mr Barker was stabbed outside the Double K Gym in November 2016