Son denies mother's murder

A man who allegedly attacked his mother with a blunt instrument before pushing her down the stairs, has denied a charge of murder.

Margaret Halliwell, 61, suffered facial injuries during the assault in Marlborough Avenue, Lower Ince, Wigan, Greater Manchester, and died four days later at Wigan Royal Infirmary.

Her 27-year-old son Craig Topping, is accused of murder when he appeared at Manchester Crown Court.

The court was told the pair had had a series of rows in the days before her death.

Mrs Halliwell was found lying unconscious at the foot of the stairs by an ambulance crew in February 2002.

Mr Topping said her injuries were the result of an accident.

The trial continues.