The jury in the Mohammed Raja murder trial was today sent out to consider its verdict.

Sussex property tycoon Nicholas van Hoogstraten, Robert Knapp and David Croke are accused of murdering the landlord on July 2, 1999.

The jury has been told not to consider a further charge against Hoogstraten of conspiracy to murder.

The judge, Mr Justice Newman, added: "As far as Knapp and Croke are concerned, the verdict is guilty or not guilty of murder.

"So far as Hoogstraten is concerned, it is very important that you remember that you have two matters to consider.

"First of all, not guilty or guilty of murder and secondly not guilty or guilty of manslaughter."

He told the six men and six women of the jury they should only consider the manslaughter allegation if they were sure Hoogstraten is not guilty of murder.

The judge stressed they should return unanimous decisions on all matters.

Mr Raja, 62, was shot and stabbed to death at his home in Sutton, Surrey, by two hit men dressed as gardeners.

Prosecutors allege Hoogstraten, 57, of Highcross Estate, Framfield, near Heathfield, ordered Croke and Knapp to carry out the contract killing.

Croke, 60, of Bolney Road, Moulsecoomb, Brighton, Knapp, 54, of Convent Street, Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, and Hoogstraten all deny murder.