THE jury trying the case of a man accused of murdering an 85-year-old Hampshire grandmother in her own home have been sent home for the night.
Judge Mr Justice Bean sent the six men and women home after they have so far failed to return verdicts in the case at Winchester Crown Court.
They have been deliberating for almost ten hours since retiring at lunchtime on Friday .
Jamie Boult, 25, of Chessel Crescent, Bitterne, denies murdering Delia Hughes on August 18 last year at her home in Atlantic Close, Ocean Village, Southampton.
He admits killing her on the grounds that he was not of sound mind at the time.
The pensioner was killed with a lump hammer, suffering at least eight blows to her head.
Boult also denies a second charge of aggravated burglary following a break in at his neighbours home on August 14.
Proceeding
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article