Murder accused jailed before for pensioner attack

A man accused of murdering a Suffolk grandmother last summer had previously been sent to prison for attacking a pensioner, a court heard.

Anita Rose, 57, was found seriously injured in her home village of Brantham, Suffolk, on 24 July and died four days later.

Roy Barclay, 56, of no fixed address, denied her murder.

At Ipswich Crown Court, the jury heard how Mr Barclay had previously been jailed for attacking an 82-year-old man in Walton-on-the-Naze in Essex, 10 years ago.

Agreed facts were read to the jury, containing details of the offence committed on 22 February 2015. Mr Barclay left Leslie Gunfield with serious injuries to his head, neck, face and jaws as well as a small brain injury.

The jury was told how he pleaded guilty in court to causing grievous bodily harm with intent after attacking Mr Gunfield in Essex.

Early in the morning, Mr Barclay had been seen by Mr Gunfield behind the back of a food shop in Walton-on-the-Naze.

The jury heard how it was an area Mr Barclay "should not have been in".

Mr Gunfield asked Mr Barclay what he was doing and said he was going to call security.

Police were told Mr Barclay came from behind and jumped on the 82-year-old's back, before kneeling on his leg and repeatedly punching him in the face.

Mr Gunfield was taken to hospital and and needed 10 titanium plates, fitted and secured with screws.

After initially pleading not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent, Mr Barclay later admitted the charge.

He was jailed and was released on 24 February 2020.

The trial continues.

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