Man 'killed by flatmate on way home from pub'

ACCUSED DENIES MURDER CHARGE AND SAYS HE ACTED IN SELF DEFENCE

- ANDREW BARDSLEY

A MAN was murdered by his flatmate after a row broke out as they walked home from the pub, prosecutors allege.

Lee Burns, 38, is on trial accused of the murder of 45-year-old Vincent 'Vinny' McDonagh.

Prosecutors say that Mr Burns repeatedly punched Mr McDonagh and stamped on his head after he fell over, following a scuffle in the street in Oldham. He denies murder and his barrister said Mr Burns argues he was acting in self-defence.

Jurors heard that Mr McDonagh had earlier lent Mr Burns £20 before they attended a nearby pub together. As they walked home a row developed which 'wound Mr Burns up significantly, the court heard.

"It's not completely clear as to what the dispute between them was about," prosecutor Rob Hall said.