Peter Smith Murder Trial: Man denies savage killing of Skegby pensioner Hilda Owen

Peter Kenneth Smith (48) told the court on Monday that he had not murdered the 71 year-old, who he had lived next door to at West Hill.

Hilda was found battered to death at her home on 1st March 2007.

Smith told the court that he and his ex-partner Adam Dixon had helped Hilda, particularly after the death of her husband in 2005.

He said that she did not like spending money and that she needed help dealing with the authorities.

Smith, a quietly spoken man, said: “She always wanted someone there when she was dealing with officialdom.”

He also said that he had helped her make various claims for grants and benefits.

He said he had enquired about ensuring the house was in Hilda’s name so he could help her with one of these claims.

The prosecution allege that Smith savagely murdered Hilda so he could benefit from her will. He denies the charge.

The trial continues.