Jurors still considering verdict on Brian McKandie murder trial

The jury is still considering its verdict in the case of a man accused of bludgeoning a north-east mechanic to death in his rural cottage.

Steven Sidebottom is alleged to have murdered and robbed Brian McKandie at his Badenscoth property in March 2016.

He had been on trial for 15 days at the High Court in Aberdeen where he denies the charge against him.

Prosecutors allege he had money in the immediate aftermath which could only have come from the home of Mr McKandie and as such he was responsible.

Sidebottom, 25 and of Crannabog Farm in Rothienorman, denies the charge against him and has launched a special defence of alibi.

His team had launched another special defence claiming another man, from Bridge of Don, was responsible but this was withdrawn.

Lord Uist sent the jury home yesterday and is expected to send jurors out for further deliberations today.