A TEENAGER has admitted his part in a homophobic torture ordeal.

Ronald Stokoe pleaded guilty at Southampton Crown Court to causing grievous bodily harm against David Hall after a judge ruled the victim's evidence could be given from beyond the grave.

Mr Hall died on August 27, at his flat in Castle House, Castle Way, Southampton, two weeks after his principal attacker, Patrick Hoey, was jailed for ten years.

His death remains a mystery after a coroner last month recorded an open verdict.

Stokoe admitted passing Hoey a glass of boiling water during the three-hour torture session in January, knowing it would be poured over the victim.

The court had previously heard how 33-year-old Hoey had burned, cut and beaten Mr Hall, 36, a known alcoholic, because he objected to his homosexuality.

Stokoe, 18, of Chelmsford Street, Weymouth, Dorset, denied causing grievous bodily harm with intent but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of grievous bodily harm, which was accepted by the prosecution.

Judge Jeremy Burford ruled that Mr Hall's statement to the police could be admitted in evidence during a trial.

Charles Parry, prosecuting, said it was in the interests of justice to allow the evidence to be given.

Adam Feest, defending, had insisted it would be unfair to Stokoe.

After Stokoe's guilty plea, Mr Feest said the teenager did not throw the boiling water over Mr Hall.

Sentence was adjourned for pre-sentence reports and Stokoe, who also faces a burglary conviction, was remanded in custody until November 13.