A DATE has been set for the trial of a sub-postmaster accused of beating his wife to death.

Robin Garbutt, 45, denies murdering wife Diana at the post office they ran together in Melsonby, near Richmond, North Yorkshire, in March.

His trial will begin at Teesside Crown Court on March 21, almost a year to the day after the alleged incident took place.

The body of 40-year-old Mrs Garbutt was found in the living quarters of the village post office.

She had suffered massive head injuries.

Police initially said there had been an armed robbery at the store.

However, Mr Garbutt was arrested after a three-week investigation by detectives.

The trial had been due to start this week.

But Mr Justice Calvert-Smith last week agreed to postpone the start for more tests to be carried out on a possible murder weapon.

The 58cm bar was found on a high wall near the post office.