Woolwich murder suspects Michael Adebolajo (L) and Michael Adebowale
Woolwich murder suspects Michael Adebolajo (L) and Michael Adebowale

The two men accused of killing Drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich will stand trial accused of his murder on 18 November.

Michael Adebowale, 22, of Greenwich, London, appeared alongside co-accused Michael Adebolajo, 28, from Romford in Essex, via videolink from separate rooms at Belmarsh Prison.

The pair spoke only to confirm their names. They were remanded in custody and will appear for a plea and case management hearing at the Old Bailey on 27 September.

They are accused of killing the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers soldier in a broad daylight attack in southeast London on 22 May. A post-mortem ruled that the cause of death was multiple stab wounds.

Both men are also charged with possession of a 9.4mm Knil model 91 revolver.

Adebolajo, whose left arm was still in a cast after he was shot by police during his arrest, is also accused of the attempted murder of two police officers and possession of a firearm with intent to cause others to believe that violence would be used.

The hearing was attended by some of Rigby's family.

During a pre-trial hearing at Westminster Magistrate Court, prosecutor Bethan David said that the charges against him met the definition of terrorism under section 30 of the Terrorism Act.

Eight other people have been arrested in connection with the case. Two have been released without charge.