LIVE updates as John Belfield cross-examined in Thomas Campbell murder trial

Murder accused John Belfield - alleged to have been the 'mastermind' of the fatal attack on Thomas Campbell - is being cross-examined by prosecutors.

Mr Belfield denies murdering the 38-year-old and conspiring to rob him. Mr Campbell's body was discovered by neighbours at his home in Mossley, Tameside, following a fatal attack in July 2022.

Three men 'pounced' on him as he arrived home late on a Saturday night, Manchester Crown Court has heard. Mr Belfield, 31, is accused of murdering Mr Campbell. Prosecutors allege he had 'motivation' for planning to rob him.

Jurors were told Mr Belfield was allegedly seeking 'items of value' from Mr Campbell's home. They have also heard Mr Campbell was in a relationship with Mr Belfield's ex-girlfriend and that Mr Belfield had displayed 'hostility' towards the pair.

Giving evidence earlier, Mr Belfield denied he was jealous of Mr Campbell's relationship with his ex-partner. He said he had planned to steal drugs belonging to Mr Campbell, with the help of a co-defendant, but denied wanting to rob him or use violence.

Mr Belfield was being cross-examined on Thursday (June 26).

Reporter Andrew Bardsley is posting updates in the live blog below...

Mr de la Poer is now asking Mr Belfield about the days prior to the murder.

Mr Belfield says he can't recall adding Coleen Campbell on Instagram on June 25.

The prosecutor then asks him about a meeting at the Boat and Horses pub in Oldham on June 27.

Mr Belfield said he was conducting a drug deal in the car park of the pub.

Jurors hear that Mr Belfield was trying to get hold of Stephen Cleworth.

Mr de la Poer says: "You had a plan, didn't you, that by 3pm you needed to be outside the school [where the tracker was placed on Mr Campbell's car]."