LIVE updates from Thomas Campbell murder trial as John Belfield's sister is called as witness

The questioning of murder accused John Belfield - alleged to have been the 'mastermind' behind the fatal attack on Thomas Campbell - had concluded.

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 in the trial, Mr Belfield has 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.

The trial continued today (June 30) as Mr Belfield's sister was called as a witness.

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

Ms Belfield says she would see her brother 'more often than not, every day'. She says Mr Belfield would spend 'three to five days' at her home.

Asked about her relationship with her brother, she describes the defendant as her 'best friend'.

She says: "He helped me with my children and supported me. He was kind of the dad role because their dad is not involved. I didn't really like leaving the house or anything.

"If I needed any shopping or if I had an appointment to go to he was very supportive of me