Three on trial for aggravated burglary after Essex businessman after shot in leg

A trial has begun of three men accused of breaking into a businessman's house in Essex and shooting him in the leg.

Timothy Mardon had been in bed at his home in Sible Hedingham in February when he heard the intruders and called 999.

The prosecution said at around 4.40am Charlie Simms, Christopher Bergin and Kalebh Shreeve broke into the property and and subjected him to a violent attack.

Much of what happened was recorded in Mr Marden's 999 call, which lasted 35 minutes.

The Prosecution say two of the men - Simms and Bergin - smashed their way into the house, while Shreeve - waited outside and kept watch.

The court was told that Shreeve had previously worked as a gardener at the house for about a year, before leaving suddenly in 2014.

The two other men found their way to Mr Marden's locked bedroom, the jury was told. They shot through the door with a shotgun, hitting Mr Marden in the leg.

The prosecution alleges one of the attackers then started shouting at Mr Marden to tell him where the safe was and threatening to blow his brains out.

The men left with Mr Marden's watch and a wallet containing some foreign money.

All three men are charged with aggravated burglary, wounding with intent and possession of a firearm.

Charlie Simms is also charged with attempted murder.

The trial continues.