Michael Phillips murder trial: Defendant Gary Jackson's evidence continues as seven Hartlepool men deny killing

A jury is continuing to hear evidence in the trial of seven Hartlepool men who deny the murder of Michael Phillips.

By Kevin Clark and Fiona Thompson

Published 14th Feb 2020, 11:00 BST

Updated 14th Feb 2020, 14:08 BST

The trial of seven men are on trial and deny the murder of Michael Phillips.

The 39-year-old died on the evening of Monday, June 10, last year following an attack inside a house in Rydal Street in the town.

Emergency services tried to save him for 40 minutes, but he did not survive, having sustained more than 50 injuries in the assault, including a number to his head and torso.

The defendants Lee Darby, 32, of Ridley Court; Neil Elliott, 44, of Briarfields Close; Gary Jackson, 31, of The Darlings in Hart Village; John Musgrave, 54, of Wordsworth Avenue; Sean Musgrave, 30, also of Wordsworth Avenue; Anthony Small, 40, of Rydal Street, and Craig Thorpe, 36, of Young Street.

Elliott and Darby also deny burglary.

Refresh for updates from Friday’s hearing as they happen.

Our reporter Kevin Clark is at court as the case continues.