The jury selection has begun at St Albans Crown Court for the murder trial of Ian Stewart, who is accused of killing Royston author Helen Bailey.

The 56-year-old is charged with murdering Ms Bailey, his partner, at their Royston home in Baldock Road. He is also charged with fraud, preventing the lawful burial of the 51-year-old’s body and perverting the course of justice.

Ms Bailey and her dachshund Boris were reported missing by Mr Stewart, who is originally from Letchworth, in April last year. Their bodies were found in a septic tank at their Royston home in July.

The jury is set to be sworn in today and proceedings are expected to officially start tomorrow.