Coronavirus: Covid-19 halts Alex Davies murder trial

They were among eight women and four men selected at Preston Crown Court to hear the case against 18-year-old Brian Healless who it is alleged brutally stabbed 18-year-old Alex Davies more than 100 times in Parbold last year.

The prosecutor opened the case but concerns were raised over the lunch break - including from jurors - as to whether the trio should be sitting at all following Boris Johnson’s message relating to over-70s.

Judge Mark Brown, the Honorary Recorder of Preston, called the jury back in and discharged them. He told them: “I hope you will understand when I say that we are doing our very best to try to ensure that the justice system can continue to function effectively.”

“We are very mindful of the crisis and very sensitive to the position of those who fall into the group identified yesterday by the Prime Minister. I am aware that three of you fall into that category and consequently I have to be sensitive to your position.

“The better course of action is for me to discharge you as a jury. It means the trial can start again.”

A fresh jury was then sworn in as the trial proceeded.

Healless admits unlawfully killing Alex Davies, 18, at Parbold Hill in Lancashire last April but denies murder.