A pensioner will stand trial charged with murdering a woman in her own home.

Michael Taylor, 71, is accused of killing Elizabeth Mackay at the house in Inverness in March.

The 60-year-old was allegedly repeatedly punched, causing her to fall and lose consciousness.

Taylor is also said to have struck Ms Mackay with "a blunt object or objects".

Prosecutors further say Taylor removed her clothes and bit her on the chest.

He faces a separate theft allegation with a claim he stole groceries, pots, cutlery and keys from the property.

Taylor pleaded not guilty to the charges during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow.

Judge Lord Beckett set a trial due to begin in Edinburgh in December. The case could last up to 12 days.