Norwich murder trial update: Woman accused of murdering man in own home tells jury how she has prayed for “every single sin” she has committed.

Kelly and Jodie Barnes. (Image: Archant © 2011; 01603 772434)

The body of 67-year-old Barry Reeve was discovered by officers at a property on Corton Road, off City Road, Norwich on February 26 last year two weeks after it is said he was attacked.

Barry Reeve (Image: Submitted)

Kelly Louise Barnes, 32, and Jodie Barnes, formerly Ramsbottom, 31, who are civil partners and from Bixley Close, both deny murdering Mr Reeve and are on trial at Norwich Crown Court.

During cross examination by Karim Khalil QC, prosecuting, Jodie Barnes today made repeated outbursts about the strength of her Christian faith and how it has helped her.

Jodie, who the court has heard had previously been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after she stabbed an ex-partner with whom she endured a 'volatile' 10-year-relationship, said she got 'visions from God all the time'.

During one outburst after being asked by Mr Khalil why she had not done the Christian thing in telling someone Kelly had stolen a pair of roller skates from a shop on February 9, the day Mr Reeve was attacked, she said: 'I've been to church and prayed for every single sin I've committed. My faith is very, very important to me and God has forgiven me.'

The court heard Jodie, by the time she signed her initial defence case statement last October could recall nothing more than taking drugs and leaving her house on February 9 last year yet now remembers it was Kelly who attacked Mr Reeve.

Mr Khalil asked why, if she knew who was responsible, had she not told her legal team earlier.

Jodie said: 'I couldn't speak about it. It was horrific. I don't know what you want me to say?'

The trial continues.