A man has appeared in court accused of killing a teacher who had previously worked at Hampstead School in Cricklewood.

Mark Patten, from Thornton Heath, south London, is charged with the murder of 43-year-old Menelaos Aligizakis who was attacked at a bus stop in Waterloo on January 5.

Police were called to the scene at about 2.45am and found Mr Aligizakis suffering from serious head injuries.

Mr Aligizakis, a Greek national who had worked as a science and maths teacher at several London schools, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Patten spoke only to confirm his name during the brief hearing yesterday (Wednesday).

Prosecutor Jonathan Polnay said: “The defendant is charged with murder. We say it was an unprovoked attack on a man in the street who was minding his own business.”

The Recorder of London, Judge Brian Barker, QC, remanded Patten in custody ahead of a plea and case management hearing on March 25.

Mr Aligizakis lived in Athens but was in the capital to visit friends for Christmas.

He worked at Athens College, where alumni include Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, but had previously taught for 10 years at a string of schools and colleges in London.

Police investigating the killing are continuing to appeal for witnesses and information.

Investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Reynolds said: “My condolences are with the family of Mr Aligizakis at this very difficult time. “This is a very busy part of London frequented by both commuters and those on a night out.

“We are keen to hear from people who were in the area or passing by at the time of this incident who may have seen or heard something that could help our investigation.”

Any witnesses and or anyone with information are urged call the incident room on 020 8721 4205 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.