The jury in the trial of a Colchester man accused of making and sending a parcel bomb to his father and step-mother’s home is expected to retire to consider its verdict tomorrow (Tuesday).

Before Ipswich Crown Court is Wayne Jeffries, 54, of Glisson Square, Colchester, who has denied causing an explosion likely to endanger life or cause serious injury to property in December 2016.

It has been alleged that Jeffries made and sent the parcel bomb to the home of his father and step-mother because he had a “burning sense of grievance” towards them for alleged abuse he suffered as a child.

The court has heard that Mrs Jeffries’ hair and clothing were singed by the device which was packed with hundreds of metal tacks and exploded with such force that it damaged the house and dislodged a loft hatch.

“It is clear from what was later uncovered by the police that this defendant had a burning sense of grievance against his parents,” said Chistopher Paxton, prosecuting.

The court heard that after his arrest Jeffries denied making or sending the the device.

He chose not to giving evidence during his trial.