Defence scorned

Robert Black's claim that his presence in the areas where three girls were snatched and murdered had been a coincidence were 'an affront to common sense', John Milford QC, for the prosecution, said at Black's trial at Newcastle Crown Court. Black, 47, denies murdering Susan Maxwell, 11, Caroline Hogg, 5, and Sarah Harper, 10. His defence counsel is due to make his final speech today.