A MAN has appeared in court charged with murder following the death of John Taylor in Kilwinning.

Kiey O’Connor made no plea when he appeared in private at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court on Wednesday, October 23.

The 26-year-old's appearance comes after police confirmed that a male had been arrested in connection with the death of the local man.

As well as a charge of murder, Mr O'Connor - whose general address is listed as being in North Ayrshire - also faced a further charge of attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

Following his appearance he was committed for further examination and remanded in custody. He is set to return to court in the coming days.

John Taylor, 44, was pronounced dead outside his home on Pollock Crescent after police were called to the scene shortly before 2pm on Friday, October 18.

It was confirmed the following day that officers were investigating murder, stating they believed the incident to be a "targeted attack".

The force say that enquiries into the incident remain ongoing at this time, having previously stated that they were "working to trace those responsible".

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 1878 of October 18, 2024.

Alternatively, detectives have also set up a website that gives members of the public access to a form to send information directly to the Major Investigation Team, which can be submitted anonymously.

The portal can be accessed at: mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT24S10-PO1.