Property developer Michael Chudley is due to go on trial today charged with murdering solicitor Jim Ward at his law firm in Devizes.

Chudley, 63, is accused of killing Mr Ward, 58, at MGW Law in St John's Street on July 2 last year.

His trial is due to begin at Salisbury Crown Court this morning and is expected to last for up to two weeks.

Chudley, formerly of Rowde, denies the charge of murder and one of possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to commit murder.

He also pleaded not guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to provoke fear of violence and threats to kill another member of staff at MGW Law on July 2 last year.

Mr Ward, who had been practising law for more than 20 years and lived with his wife in Bratton, near Trowbridge, was shot at point-blank range in his office.

Chudley was arrested in Rowde a short time later by an armed response unit.

An air ambulance took Mr Ward to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, where he was put on a life-support machine.

He died in the hospital surrounded by his family on July 22, having never regained consciousness.

Mr Ward founded MGW Law with wife Nicky Morris and their friend Francis Goddard 25 years ago. The firm has since merged with local law firm Wansbroughs.

More updates on the trial later.