SUFFOLK: A former publican was due to go on trial today for allegedly murdering his wife at their home near Wickham Market by stabbing her to death.

Paul Green is accused of killing Sharon Green at the thatched cottage they shared in Main Road, Marlesford, by the side of the A12.

The couple had been the former landlord and landlady of the Old Bell public house which they had converted into a cottage when it closed down.

Green’s trial was scheduled to start today in Court Five at Ipswich Crown Court with His Honour Judge John Devaux presiding.

The 59-year-old pleaded not guilty to murder at an earlier hearing.

He was remanded in custody until his trial.

Mrs Green’s body was discovered around 6.45am on Friday, November 20.

The 53-year-old is alleged to have sustained stab wounds to her chest.

Green was arrested on suspicion of murder later the same morning.

The couple moved to Suffolk around ten years ago from Edmonton in north London.

It is believed they ran the pub together until around six years ago.

Shortly after Mrs Green’s death friends said the Greens had three grown-up children and at least two young grandchildren.

Rose Rose, who lives on the outskirts of Marlesford and had worked with Mrs Green at the pub, paid tribute to her.

She said: “She would greet me with a little kiss and a hug and we always parted the same as well.

“She was a very happy go lucky lady, with a beautiful smile and someone who always had a sparkle about her.”