The trial of a 49-year-old Xaghra man, charged with the murder of a local warden in Gozo six years ago, has been deferred at the defence counsel's request. Benny Attard was due to stand trial over the murder of 47-year-old Fortunata Spiteri, also from Xaghra, which took place on August the 10th, 2001.

Mr Justice Giannino Caruana Demajo had appointed three psychiatrists to establish the mental state of the accused. On Thursday, the three psychiatrists told the Court that the accused was fit to face the proceedings and the trial date was set for Monday. However, Dr Anglu Farrugia and Dr Mario Scerri, appearing for the defendant, asked the Court to defer the proceedings, pointing out that they only had the weekend to consult with their client.

Whilst expressing his disappointment that the trial was not starting, Assistant Attorney General Anthony Barbara noted that there was no other option. The trial is now not expected to take place until April of next year.