Banker murder accused 'in set-up'

Mr Monckton was killed in the attack while his wife survived

A man accused of murdering a banker during a robbery has told the Old Bailey he "was never there".

Damien Hanson said his co-defendant, Elliot White, held a grudge against him and had framed him for the murder.

City financier John Monckton and his wife, Homeyra, were stabbed at their Chelsea home in west London, in November 2004. Mr Monckton later died.

Mr White admits robbery which Mr Hanson denies. Both men, aged 24, deny murder and attempted murder.

The court also heard that Mr Hanson denied stalking Homeyra Monckton, and staking out the family's home before the raid.

'Inspiration for children'

Mr Hanson said: "Elliot White is a liar. I was not there and he knows this. I was not involved in it."

Mr Hanson, who was living in a bail hostel in Streatham, south London, told the court he had been seeing his sister in Brixton, south London, on the night of the robbery.

The Moncktons were allegedly targeted because they were wealthy and Mr Hanson in particular was accused in court of being obsessed with the rich.

During cross-examination by Mr White's counsel, he said he collected articles about the rich because he wanted to inspire children to stay in school and "strive to do something better".

The pair also deny wounding with intent. The trial continues.