The father of a nine-year-old girl who died after being found seriously injured at an industrial estate in Arbroath is to stand trial accused of her murder.

Prosecutors allege Christopher Rice, from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, killed Minnie Merriman, who died in Dundee’s Ninewells Hospital on 3 August.

The 35-year-old, who was remanded in custody, made no plea during a second appearance in private via videolink at Forfar Sheriff Court. He was fully committed for trial.

Minnie’s family previously paid tribute to their “beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo”.

Emergency services were called to the Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath shortly after midnight on 3 August following reports that a child had been found injured.

Minnie was taken to Ninewells Hospital alongside four other people, but later died as a result of her injuries.

Police Scotland said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with Minnie’s death and the other members of the family – who were camping in the area – are being supported by specialist officers.

Minnie’s family, accompanied by police officers, placed tributes at the scene in Arbroath last week.

A close friend of the family has also set up a gofundme appeal to support them.

Stevie Walker said they had endured “unimaginable heartbreak”.

He added: “Until Minnie can come home, the family face regular travel between Yorkshire and Scotland, as well as accommodation and everyday living costs.”

Meanwhile, NHS Tayside is continuing to probe an alleged data breach into Minnie’s medical records.

The health board said it was “investigating the circumstances” of the alleged breach that happened in a clinical area where staff access patient information.

On Saturday Arbroath FC paid tribute to Minnie before the club’s Scottish Championship match against Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

More than 1,300 fans attended the game at Gayfield Park, which is just a mile from where the schoolgirl was found.

Writing on Facebook, Minnie’s aunt Chloe Merriman said: “We really appreciate this as a family.

“My sister is overwhelmed with the kindness and love from Arbroath.”