A young husband, accused of murdering his wife, has made a first appearance in court.

Danish Irfan, 22, made a five-minute appearance at Bradford and Keighley Magistrates’ Court yesterday, charged with the murder of Ridda Zanab.

Wearing dark trousers, a black, white and red striped top and black leather jacket, Irfan stood with a security officer in the secure dock.

The defendant, who was clean-shaven with short hair shaved at the sides, confirmed his name, date of birth and that he lived at Alford Terrace, Bradford, when asked by the court clerk.

The clerk said Irfan faced a charge of murdering Ridda Zanab at 21 Alford Terrace, Lidget Green, contrary to common law.

She said the matter would have to be sent to the crown court sitting at Bradford for a first hearing on Friday, as it was too serious to be dealt with by magistrates.

Irfan had the proceedings translated to him by an interpreter.

Prosecutor Linda Fowler told the court that bail would be a matter for the crown court and he would remain in custody until then. She said custody time limits lasted until August 20.

Irfan’s solicitor, Shaid Iqbal, agreed the matter would have to be transferred to the crown court and said he had no further observations.

Asked by the chairman of the bench, Rebecca Todd, if he understood what had taken place, the defendant replied: “Yes.” Mrs Todd told him he would remain in custody until the next hearing at the crown court.

* The body of Mrs Zanab was found in an upstairs bedroom at the couple’s home in the early hours of Sunday, November 3, last year.

The couple were married in September 2012. Their baby daughter, who is now five months old, is being cared for by her grandmother.