into question yesterday.

Government analyst Kevin Leask was due to testify about the scene at Ferry Reach, shortly after the victim's bloodstained body was found and the forensic evidence uncovered there.

Part of his testimony was also to have included details of cuts found on her shirt. But defence counsel John Perry QC argued that Mr. Leask, a forensic biologist at the Department of Health, was not experienced enough in the analysis of cuts to cloth to be considered an expert.

He said his knowledge lay in fluid and drug investigation, and did not merit expert status in the trial.

Mr. Leask, who had experience of knife wounds and clothing cuts from his time in Scotland, said he had testified in Supreme Court cases in Scotland on damage to clothing in relation to knife injuries.

He admitted that he had gained no more experience in that field since coming to Bermuda early in 1996.

Solicitor General William Pearce QC argued that Mr. Leask was suitably qualified to comment on the cuts made on Rebecca Middleton's shirt. Puisne Judge Vincent Meerabux ruled that Mr. Leask could give evidence in the realms of bodily and forensic analysis of fluid.

His evidence was allowed but proceedings were later halted when Mr. Perry objected to evidence, which he claimed was being made about cuts.

At that stage the trial was adjourned.

COURTS CTS