Fire couple 'beaten' court hears

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A couple escaped their home with their clothes on fire after they were attacked by a masked gang armed with hammers, the High Court has heard.

Thomas O'Hare, 33, died after the attack at his Tassagh home eight days ago. His partner, Lisa McClatchey, 21, suffered serious burns.

David Harold Graham of Shergrim Glen, Omagh, denies withholding information and perverting the course of justice.

Mr Graham, 43, was released on bail totalling £1,000 in court on Tuesday.

During the bail application, the court was told that Mr O'Hare had been beaten with a claw or sledge hammer and an attempt was made to tie him up.

Ms McClatchey was also beaten. The house was doused in petrol and set alight.

She escaped with her clothes and body on fire, to raise the alarm.

He was found lying in the garden. His clothes and body were covered in flames. He died of his injuries on Friday 10 November.

A defence lawyer told the High Court Mr Graham, 43, had no motive to interfere with the police inquiry as his role was very much on the periphery of what took place.