Juror in Dale Cregan trial discharged for 'legal reasons'

A juror was discharged today from serving any further in the Dale Cregan murder trial for “legal reasons”.

The development came on day six of proceedings at Preston Crown Court - two days after the one-eyed defendant changed his plea to guilty of the murders of two policewomen.

Cregan, 29, of no fixed address, admitted gunning down Pcs Nicola Hughes, 23, and Fiona Bone, 32, in Hattersley, Greater Manchester, on September 18 last year.

He continues to deny the murders of father and son David and Mark Short last summer in east Manchester.

Nine other men are also in the dock accused of various offences in connection with Cregan in a trial which is estimated to last up to 10 weeks.

This afternoon, the jury was reduced to six men and five women.

The trial continues tomorrow.

PA