A DEFENDANT in the Fernhurst murder trial said he "deeply" regretted what happened to victim Michael Griffiths.

But he says he was told Mr Griffiths had a heart attack, which caused his death.

Simon Penton, 43, of Markway, Sunbury-on-Thames, in Middlesex, admitted conspiracy to burgle homes in Loxwood, Poynings and a home near Godalming as well as Mr Griffiths's home. But he denied murder and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

Michael Griffiths was found dead at his home in Fernhurst on January 24, last year.

For full story, see this week's Haslemere Herald.