A Solihull man accused of murdering a pub landlord has appeared in court and entered not guilty pleas. Billy Allison, 36, of Cropthorne Road, Shirley, appeared at Stafford Crown Court via video link from HMP Dovegate, near Uttoxeter, on Monday, September 1, 2026.
Allison spoke only to confirm his identity, that he understood the proceedings, and to enter his pleas. He denied murdering Matt O'Gara, who was the director of The Plough pub in Huddlesford, near Lichfield. He also denied a second count of causing grievous bodily harm to another man, Adam Cooper, with intent on May 24, 2026.
Alleged incident at Ricco and Loren bar
The charges stem from an alleged incident at the Ricco and Loren bar, in Market Street, Lichfield, on Sunday, May 24, 2026. Staffordshire Police previously said it was called to the bar at 11.25pm that day. Mr O'Gara died in hospital two days later, on May 26, 2026. Mr Cooper was taken to hospital and was later discharged.
Judge Avik Mukherjee told Allison he will stand trial on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. The trial is expected to last 10 days. Allison was remanded in custody.
Community fundraiser raises £12,300
A GoFundMe campaign launched in the wake of Mr O'Gara's death has raised £12,300. The fundraiser reads: "Matt was a much-loved member of our community, and this tragedy has left unimaginable pain for so many people."
It continues: "You can not prepare or comprehend for this kind of tragedy and at such a young age. A kind man so full of life with so much to look forward to, so cruelly taken."
"Without knowing, Matt was the glue between pockets of friends and he seamlessly 'Matted' those groups together, forming an environment where you could simply walk in alone and sit in with anyone because he’d brought togetherness. Those who were once strangers or pub acquaintances are now close friends and much larger groups and 'rounds'."
The fundraiser adds: "A tireless work ethic inside work and a fan of football, live music and travel outside…Matt leaves a loving partner, family and an overwhelming legacy of friendship and overarching goodness...the void left by Matt will be incomprehensible for many people and many years to come."
Allison remains in custody pending the trial at Stafford Crown Court, scheduled to begin on October 28, 2026.
