Richard Martin, 19, of Heath Way, Horsham, told a jury today that he still has trouble believing that he caused someone's death.

He has pleaded not guilty to murdering Ricky, and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to another teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

However, he admits using a nunchuk to harm both of them outside a party in Horsham.

David Fisher QC, representing Martin, asked him: "Ricky Butler is dead, and he's dead because you hit him - how do you feel about that?"

He replied: "I feel terrible. I still can't believe to this day that my actions led to anybody's death.

"It's gonna be on my conscience for the rest of my life."

Earlier, Martin had told the court that people at the party had been abusive to him and he had wanted 'to get that hurt feeling out of me'.

He said he had intended to give Ricky 'a couple of hits, but not in any serious way'.

Martin denies the charges.

The case continues at Lewes Crown Court.

Regular trial updates will appear on this website.

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