Edinburgh OAP 'killed by man posing as a postie' say prosecutors

A man allegedly posed as a postman to get into a 79 year-old woman's home before murdering her, it is claimed.

Martin Stewart is said to have killed Margaret Grant at the flat in the capital's Restalrig Circus

Martin Stewart is said to have killed Margaret Grant at the flat in the capital's Restalrig Circus last January 24.

The 40 year-old faced the accusation during a hearing today at the High Court in Glasgow.

Prosecutors allege Stewart "did pretend" to Margaret that he was a postman and had a parcel to deliver.

Court heard Margaret Grant died last January

He said to have got inside the flat before attacking the OAP.

This includes claims Stewart demanded cash, pulled a panic alarm from Margaret's neck, threatened and pushed the pensioner as well as ransacking her home.

He also allegedly stole money, jewellery and the panic alarm.

Margaret is said to have later died at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Stewart faces 13 other charges including claims he had robbed Margaret previously.

The indictment states that he turned up the flat "under the pretence of a lawful purpose" on various occasions between October 5 2016 and December 31 2017.

Stewart allegedly entered taking cash and a purse.

Among other charges it is alleged he targeted other Edinburgh pensioners either stealing from them or planning to commit theft.

His lawyer Shelagh McCall QC today pled not guilty on behalf of Stewart, who appeared via video link.

No trial was set and judge Lady Stacey instead fixed a further hearing for April.

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