I was at home, murder accused tells jury

Mark Weston continued to deny the murder of Vikki Thompson who was hit repeatedly over the head in an attack which caused skull fractures and a severe brain injury.

The injured 30-year-old was found by her husband Jonathan on a railway embankment off Shipton Lane, Ascott-under-Wychwood, on August 12, 1995.

She died from her injuries six days later in hospital.

Giving evidence at Reading Crown Court yesterday, 35-year-old Weston – who was acquitted of Mrs Thompson’s murder in December 1996, before the case was reopened five years ago – said he had not been fishing in the area when the attack took place before 7pm.

“I was at home with my parents and sister,” he told the jury. “I have never been fishing in the evening.”

Prosecutor John Price said Weston had told police during an interview in 1995 he had gone fishing at “eight”.

Weston said: “I meant in the morning. There is a mix up of times of am and pm. I am not sure if that is my mistake or his (the police officer’s) but I do not use the 24-hour clock.”

Weston said he could not recall if bloodstained black boots – which have a match to Mrs Thompson’s DNA – were his, when he was shown photographs by Mr Price.

“I can’t recall if they are or they are not, from the photographs,” said Weston, who was wearing a smart white shirt, blue and black tie, black trousers and dark trainers during the hearing.

Prosecutors claim new DNA evidence showed Weston killed Mrs Thompson and alleged he lashed out at her after she caught him masturbating as he watched her.

It was the day after her wedding anniversary.

Defending, Sally O’Neill asked Weston if he had ever spoken to Mrs Thompson.

“No,” came the instant reply. When asked if he murdered her, Weston replied: “No, I did not.”

Weston, of Dawls Close, Ascott-under-Wychwood, denies the murder of Mrs Thompson who was walking her dog when she was attacked.

The trial continues.