Murder Trial: The Disappearance Of Margaret Fleming On Bbc2 @ 9Pm The Last Two Nights.

[ladybirder]

Did anyone watch this documentary? For me it was absolutely riveting, such an unusual case and lots of it live from the Scottish Court.
"Filmed by Bafta Scotland award-winning director Matt Pinder, this ground-breaking doc takes the audience into the very centre of the trial at Glasgow’s High Court and beyond."
If you're short of something to watch I recommend you go to iPlayer and give it a go. Beautiful place, Inverkip.

[jakep]

I did watch it and also found it riveting.
My opinion was that the male was a truly obnoxious individual who ruled the female with fear. She was unable to voice anything for herself but knew everything.
I think I would have struggled to find him guilty legally, beyond reasonable doubt, but watching her face said it all and that was good enough for me.

[jakep]

Many apologies should have started with Spoiler Alert!

[aelmpvw]

for me the seriousness of the dreadful case was counteracted by the defence barrister who seemed incapable of keeping his wig on straight

[Mamyalynne]

Certainly a fascinating case to watch.

[ladybirder]

But that didn't stop you enjoying it ael did it?
Yes, naughty Jakep. Tut!
Glad you found it riveting as well. What a pair of charmers; her father must have desperate to choose them to care for his daughter. But shame on social services. I see a review has now been ordered, not before time.

[maggiebee]

Watched it primarily because I love Inverkip. Found it absolutely riveting and wouldn't have wanted to be a member of the jury; a very difficult case for them. Personally feel they reached the right verdict.

[ladybirder]

Me neither Maggie. The verdict was not unanimous either. Anyone know the majority figure? So you know Inverkip Maggie, is the house still there? Gorgeous location but ...

[aelmpvw]

//But that didn't stop you enjoying it ael did it?//
no not at all, it was an engrossing documentary

[maggiebee]

Interesting article with interview with the director, Matt Pinder.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/mediapacks/murder-trial

[Ken4155]

I honestly believe I would have reached the same decision as the majority of the jury members. There were far too many inconceivable statements coming from the two accused and their defence teams. As was said by the prosecutor, had Margaret been aware that he two 'best friends' were on trial, she would have contacted the police. Yep, I think I would have reached the same decision and slept soundly that night.

[Rosie29]

Very engrossing piece of television - more riveting and memorable than many fictional dramas. I find myself thinking about it still today.

[maggiebee]

ladybirder, it's many years since I was last in Inverkip and have no knowledge of "the house". Certainly a wonderful location but feel it should be demolished and the whole area cleared (if this hasn't already been done).

[hellywelly4]

It was extremely interesting. Avril Jones, in my opinion was terrified of her partner. She said something when she was been questioned by the police at the beginning that she was too scared to speak out. Can’t remember the words though. He was a really nasty piece of work.

[ladybirder]

"Best friends" ken. Hmmmm! You wouldn't need enemies would you.
Great link, thanks Maggie.
I keep thinking about it too Rosie. I'd so like to know what happened to the poor girl. Maybe one of her "carers" will let slip something to a fellow inmate in prison, her, he won't.

[davebro]

I wondered about the filming in court. Is it allowed now, could it interfere with "due process" & do the accused have to agree to it?

[maggiebee]

davebro, the link I gave above gives some background to the permission to film in court.

[ladybirder]

That's a great link Maggie, I've given you BA for it.

[Spicerack]

They hung themselves with their own embellishment. Sending those letters to themselves. Up until then I was sure they'd get off. Thoroughly unpleasant pair but not enough evidence to convict. (some of the evidence the prosecution and police introduced was farcical.)
Big up to the Scottish benefits system for paying out £180,000 to someone who disappeared in the last century. (and the SS for their care) If that new rule hadn't been introduced, the couple would, almost certainly, still be getting away with it.

[Ken4155]

I think the most damning evidence against Avril was the cold stare she gave to the interviewer when asked what she would say to Margaret if she knew she was watching. There was only one thing in those eyes - the sure fire knowledge that poor Margaret could not possibly have been watching.

[ladybirder]

I think it was the right decision Spicerack although I wasn't sure which way it would go. One of the best programmes I've seen in a long time.