Man jailed for hiding death stick

A 40-year-old man who got rid of a walking stick used in a killing in Norfolk has been jailed for nine months for perverting the course of justice.

David Comer, of Great Yarmouth, threw into the river the stick thrust down the throat of grandfather Alan Bowles, 64, Norwich Crown Court heard.

Comer was acquitted of any part in the killing at Mr Bowles home in Great Yarmouth but two others were convicted.

Judge Peter Jacobs had allowed Comer bail while reports were compiled.

Paul Slack, 46, of no fixed address, was convicted of the murder and will serve a minimum of 16 years.

Kathleen Johnson, 57, also of no fixed address, was convicted of manslaughter and assault, and given a three-year term.

Mr Bowles' stick was inserted nine inches into his throat, Norwich Crown Court heard.

Comer threw the stick into the river and it was never found.

Judge Jacobs said the sentence had to be immediate custody "otherwise the wrong message would go out".

He added that he would not be doing his public duty if he did not send Comer to prison.