November 14, 2000 12:59

MAN ACCUSED OF STABBING BEATLE GEORGE STANDS TRIAL

Michael Abram enters a plea of not guilty due to insanity...

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The trial of MICHAEL ABRAM, accused of the attempted murder of former BEATLE GEORGE HARRISON and his wife, OLIVIA, in December 1999, has opened in OXFORD, with the 34-year-old accused entering a plea of not
guilty due to insanity.

Abram arrived at Oxford Crown Court in a blacked-out Ford Galaxy people carrier just after 9am this morning (Tuesday November 14).

Olivia Harrison, 52, who is expected to give evidence, arrived around 11.15am amid a heavy Police and private security presence. George Harrison has not attended, and is not expected to give evidence at the trial.

Abram is accused of attempting to murder George and Olivia Harrison after an incident on December 30, 1999, when he broke into the couple's Henley-on-Thames home. Following a struggle, the 57-year-old guitarist
was stabbed and taken to hospital, though he and his wife managed to
restrain their attacker until police arrived. Harrison has since made a full recovery.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson told assembled media representatives that Abram was expected to plead not guilty to the counts of attempted murder on the grounds of diminished responsibility due to his mental instability. He also denies the other charges of
causing grievous bodily harm with intent, unlawful wounding and aggravated burglary.

The trial is expected to last for three or four days.