Murder trial mum accused of meeting 'mastermind'

A MUM on trial accused of the murder of her ex-husband met up with the alleged 'mastermind' of the attack days before her former spouse was 'tortured to death, a jury heard.

- ANDREW BARDSLEY

Coleen Campbell was seen on CCTV driving a VW Tiguan to a street in Droylsden, Tameside, where she met John Belfield, Bolton Crown Court was told. Days later, 38-year-old Thomas Campbell, her husband of 10 years, was found dead in his own home. Ms Campbell, 38, Stephen Cleworth, 38, and Reece Steven, 29, have all pleaded not guilty to murder.

Prosecutors allege that Mr Belfield, 28, who is not in court and is believed to have fled the country, was the 'mastermind' of the attack. He is alleged to have plotted to rob Mr Campbell after reading an M.E.N. article about Mr Campbell and his ex-wife's 'wealthy lifestyle!

Three men 'pounced on' Mr Campbell when he arrived home at about 11pm on July 2.