The trial of the man accused of murdering a four-year-old Keighley boy has been delayed for a second time, to a date to be fixed in the New Year.

Anwar Rosser, 33, of Harewood Road, Bracken Bank, is accused of killing Riley Turner at the youngster's home on January 20.

The trial, originally set to take place on July 23, was postponed after defence lawyers said expert evidence they had commissioned would not be ready in time.

A new date was fixed for October 1, in front of Mr Justice Coulson at Bradford Crown Court.

But Rosser’s defence lawyers have now told the Recorder of Bradford, Judge Roger Thomas QC, that medical evidence would not be available in time for the new trial date. They had no choice but to ask the court to break the fixture.

Paul Greaney QC, barrister for the Crown, said the medical evidence commissioned by the defence was “absolutely relevant and appropriate.”

“We do think Your Honour has no option but to permit the defence to carry out these enquiries,” Mr Greaney said.

He told Judge Thomas: “I have spoken to Riley’s grandfather and that is one of the most difficult things I have had to do in my career.”

The judge said: “The case inevitably is going to be adjourned.”

It is due to be mentioned on Wednesday to fix a new trial date.