The man accused of murdering and raping a young female showjumper has died, a court has heard.

Jonathan Creswell, 36, had denied the murder and rape of Katie Simpson. His trial began yesterday.

Ms Simpson died following an incident in Gortnessy Meadows, Lettershandoney, on 3 August 2020.

The 21-year-old, who was from the village of Tynan in County Armagh, died in Altnagelvin Hospital six days later, having never regained consciousness.

On Wednesday, prosecuting counsel Sam Magee KC told the court Mr Creswell “was found deceased at his home this morning”.

Det Ch Insp Mark Gibson was called to the witness box and advised he had received information that at 09:00 BST police in Londonderry confirmed a male has been found dead.

A family member confirmed it was Jonathan Creswell.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and the coroner has been informed.

This breaking news story is being updated. More to follow.