BLOODSTAINS in the car used by suspect Shaun Stokes pointed to a sustained attack in the back seat, the Tom Holt murder trial was told.

Forensic scientist Michael Appleby told Worcester Crown Court that tests had shown blood found in the Volvo Estate belonged to murder victim Tom, from May Hill.

Ledbury builder Stokes is accused of murdering the 36-year-old for his £12, 856 inheritance.

Stokes's partner, 27-year-old Petra, has pleaded not guilty to murder and assisting an offender by disposing of a body. Both had drug habits.

Earlier, the court heard that the mother-of-one had made a statement claiming Stokes had confessed to the murder of Mr Holt but warned her to keep quiet.

Mr Holt's battered body was found in the River Frome, near Bromyard, in September last year.

Mr Appleby said the blood spots could not have been caused by a nose bleed. The trial was adjourned until next Tuesday.