Michael Phillips murder trial: Live updates from Teesside Crown Court as Niramax boss Neil Elliott gives evidence

Seven men accused of the murder of Hartlepool man Michael Phillips will return to Teesside Crown Court as the defences’ case is due to begin on Tuesday, February 4.
Michael PhillipsMichael Phillips
Michael Phillips

The men, who all deny murder, have been charged with killing Mr Phillips, who was 39, in 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 Tuesday’s hearing as they happen. Our reporter Sophie Brownson is in court as the case continues.