A FACTORY worker has denied murdering a notorious ex-gangster who was found with his head beaten in on a farm.

Paul Groves, 33, of Queensway in Ongar, pleaded not guilty to killing 39-year-old William ‘Billyboy’ Martindale at Chelmsford Crown Court this morning.

Mr Martindale, from Cripsey Avenue, Ongar, was found with head injuries at Meadow View Farm in High Ongar, in September.

Paramedics attempted to revive him, but were unsuccessful.

Months before his death, he told the Guardian in an interview that he had spent 20 years on the run from police, but had gone straight and was penning his autobiography to warn youngsters against a life of crime.

Groves also denies causing a 54-year-old man from Barking grievous bodily harm with intent.

He is next due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on December 18.