THE trial of five men accused of being involved in the murder of father-of-two found shot dead in a layby is expected to start again next week.

On Wednesday last week a judge halted a 10-week murder trial after one of the defendants was taken to court despite having tested positive for Covid-19.

The jury was set to be sworn in at Winchester Crown Court for the trial in connection with the death of Gurinderjit Rai. Mr Rai, 41, was found shot in a lay-by in Shepherds Farm Lane, Corhampton, on July 13 2019.

Defendant Paul White, 27, had tested positive for Covid-19, with the court hearing that he had been in contact with two co-defendants and his legal team before his test status was revealed.

Now the crown court has confirmed that the trial will recommence next Monday (January 25).

White, of Dyson Drive, Winchester, along with Corin Barlow, 41, of Lumley Road, Horley, Surrey; Hannis, 29, of Leah Gardens, Eastleigh, and Statham, 30, of Crescent Close, Winchester all deny a charge of murder. Barlow also denies possession of a firearm.

Phillip Hodan, 43, of Longwood Dean Lane, Owslebury, denies being involved in organised crime activities, including the murder of Mr Rai and supplying Class A drugs.

The trial had been set up over two courtrooms to accommodate five defendants, their legal teams, the jury and other court staff in accordance with social-distancing requirements.