THE trial of a youth accused of murdering Clacton teenager Jay Whiston is now expected to start on Wednesday morning.

Edward Redman denies the murder charge and is facing a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court which may last up to ten weeks.

A number of preliminary matters were dealt with in court today and prosecutor Mark Milliken-Smith QC said more legal issues are due to be considered tomorrow.

Mr Milliken-Smith said he expected the prosecution to open its case on Wednesday, followed by a visit to the scene of the alleged murder in Colchester.

Redman, 18, of Halstead Road, Eight Ash Green, is accused of murdering 17-year-old Jay Whiston during a party at a house in Colchester on September 8, 2012.

Paramedics tried to save his life after being called to the house in Marlowe Way, Lexden, shortly after 10pm but he died later in hospital.

A post-mortem examination revealed the teenager, of Aster Close, Clacton, died from a stab wound.

Redman is currently in custody.