An inmate charged with murdering disgraced Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins has refused to leave his cell but he was expected to deny the offence, a court has heard. Rashid Gedel, 25, referred to as Rico Gedel during the proceedings at Leeds Crown Court, was due to appear for a case management hearing via a prison videolink on Monday.

But Judge Guy Kearl KC was told by a prison officer that Gedel had refused to join the hearing over the link. Peter Moulson KC, defending, said: “I apprehend a not guilty plea will be entered in due course.” 

Mr Moulson said he understood that Gedel wanted to appear in court in person rather than over a link.

Gedel and Samuel Dodsworth, 43, are charged with murdering Watkins at HMP Wakefield on October 11.

The 48-year-old paedophile singer, serving a 29-year sentence for child sex offences, was pronounced dead at the maximum security jail.

Dodsworth pleaded not guilty at a previous hearing and a trial date of May 2 has been set.

Judge Kearl, who is the Recorder of Leeds, said Gedel will be brought from prison to formally enter his plea on February 9. 

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