A MAN is due to go on trial today over allegedly murdering a Dorset millionaire.

Thomas Schreiber is accused of the murder of Sir Richard Sutton at the hotelier’s home in north Dorset.

Schreiber, 35 and of Gillingham, is also accused of the attempted murder of his own mother, Anne Schreiber, who was Sir Richard’s partner.

The trial is taking place at Winchester Crown Court and it is being presided over by the Honourable Mr Justice Garnham.

As reported, police were called to an address in High Langham, near Gillingham, at 7.30pm on April 7.

Sir Richard, who was the owner of a number of top London hotels, and Ms Schreiber were found with serious injuries.

The millionaire was pronounced dead at the scene two hours later, while Ms Schreiber was rushed to hospital.

Sir Richard was listed at number 435 in the Sunday Times Rich List last year, with an estimated family fortune of £301 million – a rise of £83 million on the previous year.

The guide said Sir Richard’s company owns London hotels the Sheraton Grand Park Lane and the Athenaeum, plus three smaller venues.

He had an extensive property and farming portfolio, including the 6,500-acre Benham Estate in west Berkshire and the Stainton Estate in Lincolnshire.

Schreiber pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder at a hearing last month.