Murder trial evidence will be held secret

THE murder trial of a man accused of killing a Hampstead writer will be the first ever to have parts of it heard behind closed doors

THE murder trial of a man accused of killing a Hampstead writer will be the first ever to have parts of it heard behind closed doors.

Wang Yam, 45, is accused of murdering 86-year-old writer Allan Chappelow (pictured), who was found dead from head injuries at his Downshire Hill home in June 2006.

At the Old Bailey on Tuesday Mr Justice Ousley rejected an appeal against the gagging order.

He warned that even speculation about the reasons for the media blackout would constitute contempt.

He said: "There is a serious possibility that the prosecution could not proceed. I am quite satisfied the defendant can have a fair trial.''