A MAN known to his friends as “Bones” was beaten to death with his own guitar by a neighbour, a court has been told.

Craig McGowan was found unconscious and lying in a pool of blood in his home in Dursley, Whiston by his horrified mother.

He was taken to hospital but doctors confirmed he was dead a few hours later.

He had multiple injuries including a ten-centimetre “zig-zag fracture” to the side of his head and face.

Peter Howarth, also from Dursley, Whiston, is standing trial at Liverpool Crown Court accused of murdering 35-year-old Craig on June 22 this year.

William Waldron QC, prosecuting, said Craig was punched and hit over the head with his own guitar, which was said to be his prized possession.

Mr Waldron told a jury that Howarth, 36, was in a relationship with a good friend of Craig’s, Tracey Cheeseman.

The prosecutor says she had been insulted by a drunken Craig and had asked Howarth to speak to him about his behaviour.

Mr Waldron alleged Howarth was also jealous about his partner’s friendship with Craig.

He claimed Howarth went around to the flat and "ferociously" attacked Craig, described as vulnerable man who went by the nickname Bones because of a genetic condition he suffered from.

The court was told battered Craig dragged himself around his living room before losing consciousness and slipping into a coma.

Mr Waldron alleged the victim’s guitar was later found broken by police. He suggested Craig’s hair was found embedded into it showing it had been used as a weapon.

Howarth has pleaded not guilty to murder.

The case continues.