Man 'helped killer after seeing murder'

A man told police he helped a scrapyard owner dispose of two bodies because he feared for his own life, a court has heard.

Darren Anderson, 32, saw scrap car dealer Jamie Franklin shoot one of his two victims in the head, Northampton Crown Court was told, during the prosecution's opening speech.

The court has already heard how the bodies of Stephen Line and Tommy Foster, both 22, were burned and put into scrap cars before one was put through a car crusher.

Mr Franklin, 32, denies two counts of murder and Mr Anderson denies one count of perverting the course of justice.

No threats

The prosecution alleges that Mr Franklin shot Mr Foster and Mr Line at his business premises in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, in October 2001, to dodge more than £10,000 of debts.

William Coker QC, for the prosecution, said Mr Anderson told police he had seen Mr Franklin shoot Mr Line while Mr Foster lay dead on the ground.

"He was scared for his life, although he said that Franklin had never threatened him," he said.

Mr Line's charred remains were later found in the boot of a burnt-out car at Mr Franklin's business.

Mr Foster's body has never been found.

The trial continues.