A factory worker has this morning been jailed for life for murdering a former friend in a row over drugs.

Paul Groves, 34, of Queensway in Ongar, was yesterday convicted of killing William Martindale, at Martindale’s smallholding in Mill Lane, High Ongar.

A post-mortem examination showed that Mr Martindale, 39, from Cripsey Avenue, Ongar, died from head injuries which were inflicted by a pick-axe handle.

A second man, 55-year-old Paul Meeking, from Barking, was also found at the site with head injuries. He was treated in hospital and later discharged.

Paul Groves was arrested a few hours after the attack on September 7 last year, and charged with one count of murder and one count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He stood trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, and was found guilty on both counts yesterday.

This morning he was given a life prison sentence for the murder, with a minimum tariff of 23 years.

He was further imprisoned for 10 years for the assault, but this was to run concurrently.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Marina Ericson, said: "There can be no excuse for the actions of Paul Groves. He is a dangerous man who showed a complete disregard for the life of Billy.

“Paul Groves has now been sentenced and will have many years to reflect upon the utter distress he has caused to many people.”