Michael Phillips murder trial: Live updates as accused Neil Elliott takes the stand at Teesside Crown Court

Seven men accused of the murder of Hartlepool man Michael Phillips will appear at Teesside Crown Court as the defence cases continue on Wednesday, February 5.
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The men have all denied the charge of murder after Mr Phillips, who was 39, died following an attack where he received more than 50 injuries in a property on Rydal Street, Hartlepool.

The seven men are: Lee Darby, 32, of Ridley Court; Neil Elliott, 44, of Briarfield 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.

Refresh for updates from Wednesday’s hearing as they happen. Our reporter Sophie Brownson is in court as the case continues at Teesside.