A SUFFOLK murder trial could be delayed for weeks after the defendant was taken to hospital with heart trouble.John Walker, 65, is accused of shooting dead his wife, Glenda, at their Meadow Cottage home, in Great Bealings.

A SUFFOLK murder trial could be delayed for weeks after the defendant was taken to hospital with heart trouble.

John Walker, 65, is accused of shooting dead his wife, Glenda, at their Meadow Cottage home, in Great Bealings.

The 63-year-old's body was discovered with a gunshot wound to the chest in November of last year.

The trial was due to be heard later this month but was listed for an update on its progress at Ipswich Crown Court.

However, the court was told Walker is set to undergo a heart bypass operation next week, meaning it is now unlikely to go-ahead before the new year.

Walker, who is currently living at a bail address in the London area, was first taken ill last Monday .

Representing Walker, Jill Evans said: "Mr Walker had been suffering from pains, but bearing in mind he is about to face a murder trial, he had put them down to anxiety and stress.

"However, the pains increased so much that he visited his GP on Monday, who sent him to a consultant.

"He saw the consultant on Tuesday morning and was immediately admitted to hospital. The court is informed that he is not expected to be discharged, pending the operation."

Judge John Devaux listed the trial for a further hearing on November 11, when an update on Walker's condition will be received.

Prior to his arrest and charge, Walker and his wife were well-known in the Woodbridge and Bealings area and were members of various community groups. These included the River Deben Association, the Deben Yacht Club and the Suffolk Preservation Society.