Defence barrister Nicholas Rhodes pointed to several “false theories” in the trial of murder suspect Julian Felisi during his closing statements in court this morning.

Mr Rhodes told the jury, at St Albans Crown Court, blood spatter evidence presented by The Crown suggested Gary Bennett's killer had “a fair amount” of blood on both their upper and lower garments.

He pointed to the fact no blood or DNA from Mr Bennett was found in the defendant's vehicle during thorough forensic examinations, despite the fact he is alleged to have driven the car minutes after the bin man's murder.

This, Mr Rhodes said, suggested neither the defendant or the Irishmen, whom he subsequently gave a lift to, killed Mr Bennett, pointing instead to the other Irishmen Felisi claims remained in the park.

The court heard Felisi acted “shamefully” after witnessing his friend and colleague lying on the floor - that he was “looking after number one”.

But, said Mr Rhodes, the jury must consider whether or not this amounted to any evidence of guilt.

Regarding the fact the defendant kept quiet through police interviews and lied in earlier statements, Mr Rhodes pointed out “inaccurate” testimony from witnesses Dave Ansley and Ben Bruton.

The barrister claimed they “reacted in the same way as the defendant” when realising they may be implicated in the murder – by “lying” to police.

Mr Rhodes said: “It is not just the defendant who has been economical with the truth. If these witnesses can be excused of an innocent fear why can't this be true of the defendant?”

Finally, Mr Rhodes told the jury to consider what he yesterday described as the prosecution's “elephant in the room”.

He said: “Bear in mind this huge problem in the prosecution's case, the one thing that pierces right through it – why would Julian Felisi murder Gary Bennett?

“Not just why would he do it there, in a park he knew was covered by CCTV cameras, or why he would do it at that time of the morning, on his way to work, but why kill him at all? There is absolutely no reason that helps you with that question.”

Judge Stephen Gullick, summing up, told the jury they must not let any feelings of hostility felt towards the defendant play any part in their discussions about the case.

Judge Gullick said it would be natural if the jury felt this way when hearing how Felisi failed to obtain any medical help for Mr Bennett and subsequently hid his knowledge of events from police.

He added the prosecution did not need to prove a motive for the jury to find the defendant guilty, only that he did in fact commit murder.

The jury was instructed of the law they would need to apply when making a decision before Judge Gullick began taking the members through what he considered the main points of evidence in the case.

The judge's closing remarks are due to continue after lunch., after which the jury will retire to consider a verdict.

Felisi faces a minimum of 15 years in prison if he is found guilty.