The home where a wealthy jeweller was murdered was sold during his murder trial – even though the advert detailed the crime.

An honest estate agent managed to sell the house of horrors despite producing a brochure including grim photographs of the boarded-up semi-detached property, which was badly damaged by fire.

It was set alight by those convicted of butchering Michael Griffiths, 59, in a bid to destroy evidence.

The antiques dealer was bound, tortured and killed by “ruthless” burglars searching for diamonds worth £40,000, a court heard.

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He was attacked and doused in an accelerant before his home in Fernhurst, near Midhurst, was set alight.

Prosecutor Christine Laing told Hove Crown Court that the “well-liked” victim was tortured in a “protracted assault” involving weapons and strangulation.

Estate agent Henry Adams said contracts for the three-bedroom family home were exchanged while the defendants were in the dock.

The property had a guide price of £100,000, but the undisclosed selling price is said to have “exceeded all expectations”.

It is believed the home was previously worth three times the guide price, at around £300,000.

Potential buyers were told they had a “rare and exciting opportunity” to completely refurbish the “deceptively spacious” house.

The advert added: “As the pictures show, the property has been badly damaged by fire and requires complete refurbishment.

“We are obliged to make all potential purchasers aware that there was a murder committed at the property.

“The house has a lounge, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, large gardens, a garage, driveway for two cars, and external workshop.

“Stunning areas of National Trust and Areas of Outstanding Beauty can be found locally for walking and riding enthusiasts to enjoy.”