A train conductor killed retired businessman Robert Saint and threw his body into the sea, a court heard today.

David MacBride had paid £119,000 to buy a 22ft motorcruiser called The Sundowner off his alleged victim but the cheque bounced.

Lewes Crown Court heard today he was later seen heading out to sea in the boat with Mr Saint, a 70-year-old widower, whose body was found ten days later on the Isle of Wight.

MacBride, 44, of Bramber Close, Bognor, denies murder.

Camden Pratt QC, opening the prosecution case, said Mr Saint used to go sailing with his wife, Pamela, but she died in 2001, leaving him alone.

Last summer, the defendant is said to have approached him and made an offer for the vessel.

Mr Pratt said: "On September 24, a friend went to The Sundowner with Mr Saint to find the defendant waiting there.

"It was the friend's intention to help Mr Saint count the money for the boat.

"On board the boat, the friend heard the defendant say words to the effect 'I've come on the train. I did not feel safe walking around with all that money'.

"He added 'If it's all right with you, I will pay with a cheque' and she heard Mr Saint say that was okay."

Mr Pratt said a cheque for £119,000 was paid into Barclays Bank in Chichester.

But when the cheque bounced the former timber yard manager is said to have arranged a meeting with MacBride on September 26 at Birdham harbour to discuss the deal.

He was not seen again after the pair headed out to sea with the defendant at the wheel.

A post-mortem revealed Mr Saint, of Horsham Road, Steyning, had died from head injuries.

The Sundowner was found moored at Itchenor, near Chichester, a few days later.

The trial continues.