A man accused of murdering a pensioner caused his death in revenge for alleged sexual assaults against him, a jury heard.

Mark Smith, 38, denies murdering Michael Bird at his bungalow, in Bunyan Road, Braintree, on December 7 last year. At Basildon Crown Court yesterday, the jury heard Smith, of Vicarage Close, Great Saling, admits causing Mr Bird's death, but denies murder.

The 65-year-old was strangled and found dead in the bath at his home by police.

  • The trial continues