A MAN jailed for attacking his former girlfriend who died six months after the beating could face trial for her murder in the new year.

The body of Kathryn Cook was discovered by her ten-year-old daughter, Rebecca, on June 25, 2008, at their home in Stanley, County Durham.

The 44-year-old suffered severe head injuries and was left in a coma after the attack, in Penshaw Gardens.

Ms Cook’s former partner, Paul Northey, formerly of Wylam Road, Stanley, was arrested and jailed for eight years after being found guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent.

But three days after Northey was jailed, Ms Cook’s life support machine was switched off and she died.

Northey was subsequently charged with murder and, although he is taking his case to the Court of Appeal, lawyers yesterday set a provisional date of January 24 next year for his trial to begin at Newcastle Crown Court.

Should it go ahead, the trial is expected to last up to five days.