Senior Puisne Judge Marva McIntosh had to do damage control yesterday when a prosecution witness uttered comments which could be regarded as prejudicial to the defence.

The witness was testifying at the trial of the two men charged with the murder of Manchester couple Richard and Julia Lyn.

A short adjournment was granted after the witness made the comments and submissions were made in the absence of the jury.

The witness was testifying at the trial in the Home Circuit Court and, on being asked if she knew any of the accused, made a certain comment.

The witness was called to identify items of furniture which were allegedly removed from the couple's house in Mandeville, Manchester, on the day they were strangled. The witness identified a number of appliances which she said belonged to the Lyns.

Lennox Swaby, 28, farmer and taxi driver of Hopeton district, Manchester, and Calvin Powell, 26, of New Green, Manchester, are on trial for the double murder.

barbara.gayle@gleanerjm.com