Farmer found not guilty of murder attempt

A farmer who opened fire on burglars was today cleared on two charges.

Tony Martin was found not guilty of attempting to murder Brendan Fearon and cleared of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

The jury was still considering charges against him of murdering Fred Barras, 16, and wounding with intent.

The judge at Norwich Crown Court told the jury he would accept a majority verdict on the two charges.

The two verdicts were met with gasps and tears by members of the dead boy's family.

Police officers in the court room quickly moved in to where the family have been sitting throughout the trial to prevent any trouble.

Martin stood impassively holding the dock rail as the jury found him not guilty of attempted murder and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.

Dressed in a blue blazer and floral tie he was led away from the dock by two police officers as the jury retired again to consider the remaining two charges of murder and wounding with intent.