Two women said to have sold antiques to a man now accused of murdering a pensioner have never been traced, a court has heard.
David Munley, 57, denies murdering 86-year-old Jean Barnes at her home in Tennyson Road, Worthing, and systematically stealing her antiques before and after her death.
Lewes Crown Court previously heard how Munley claimed a painting and desk believed to have come from the pensioner's home had been sold or given to him by an Elizabeth Roderick, of Buckingham Road, Worthing, and a resident of Church Walk.
However, the court heard that police inquiries had found no trace of Mrs Roderick and no one living in Church Walk had heard of Munley.
Detective Constable David Payne said he had spoken to residents in Buckingham Road about Mrs Roderick, including some who had lived there for more than 20 years.
He said: "No one we have spoken to knew or had heard of the lady."
Munley, of Byron Road, Worthing, denies murder, nine counts of burglary and five of forgery.
The case continues.
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