Weatherston trial delayed

The continuation of evidence by murder accused Clayton Robert Weatherston was delayed all morning by legal argument in the High Court at Christchurch today.

He was due to resume giving evidence at 10am in his defence in his trial on a charge of murdering Sophie Elliott in Dunedin in January last year.

But the day began with legal argument in closed court which went on for more than an hour.

Then the jury was sent away until midday, and when they returned they were again sent away until 2.15pm.

The court's usual practice is also to adjourn early on a Friday afternoon, which will also shorten the time available for Weatherston's third day in the witness box at the month-long trial.

He denies the charge of murder for stabbing Miss Elliott to death, but has indicated he would plead guilty to manslaughter.

The defence claims he was provoked beyond self control by her behaviour.

- NZPA