DNA of murder-accused was found in farmer's burned-out Land Rover

William ‘Bill’ Taylor Credit: Credit: Family photo

A jury's heard how the DNA of a man accused of murdering a wealthy farmer from Hertfordshire was found in his car before his death.

William Taylor's body was discovered in a river near Hitchin eight months after he was reported missing.

Details have emerged of an alleged arson attack on the victim's Land Rover just over a week before his disappearance.

DNA samples from a partially burned towel and shirt matched the DNA of his estranged wife Angela Taylor's new partner Paul Cannon.

The pair are accused of arson as well as the murder of William Taylor alongside a third person - Gywnn Griffiths

69-year-old Mr Taylor was reported missing on the 4th of June from his home near Hitchin, and his body was discovered 8 months later in a river close to his home.

All three defendants deny the charges, including lesser charges of conspiracy to murder. The trial continues.

  • Watch Graham Stothard's report here