Man accused of Minster tourist murder attempt

A 43-year-old man appeared in court today accused of attempting to murder an elderly tourist in the grounds of York Minster.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Jul 2011, 17:12 BST

Paul Knipe appeared at York Magistrates Court accused of the attack on 78-year-old South African Lyle Thole on Friday.

Police said Mr Thole was hit repeatedly over the head with a rock or cobble after a stranger struck up conversation with him at around 8.30pm.

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He was taken to York District Hospital for treatment to a serious head injury and damage to his hand. He has since been released from hospital and his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Knipe, of Spring Hill, Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, appeared for a five-minute hearing wearing a blue T-shirt, sporting short grey hair and flanked by two security officers.

He was remanded in custody to appear before York Crown Court on July 11.