THE jury were retiring for the second time today (Monday) to consider the evidence in the trial of a convicted killer accused of trying to stab to death his sister-in-law in Lye High Street.

Gheorghe Mihai is alleged to have stabbed Roxana Mihai five times after telling a friend: "I am going to kill someone. I will go to jail for ten years."

The prosecution have claimed the 38-year-old father-of-one chased after the victim while brandishing the large kitchen knife after she refused to give him money to buy alcohol.

But Mihai of Park Street, Lye, maintained in evidence to the jury he was trying to return the knife to his sister-in-law and her injuries were accidental after he fell on top of her while she was on the ground.

"When I ran after her I wasn't angry," said Mihai. "I had nothing against her. I did not intend to murder her or cause her any harm."

He went on: "I could not do such a thing. I never said I was going to kill somebody. I have got a family. I have got a child. How could I say such a thing."

But Matthew Brook, prosecuting, has alleged Mihai savagely attacked his sister-in-law and he was only stopped when her husband - his brother - punched him in the face.

A passing lorry driver saw him suddenly produce the knife and he described Mihai as a "man possessed" as he chased after the victim who was screaming.

Mrs Mihai had to be taken to hospital where she was treated for stab wounds to her face, head, arm and back.

Mihai has pleaded not guilty to attempting to murder the woman, wounding her with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing an offensive weapon.

The six-man six-woman jury considered the evidence for a short time on Friday afternoon and they will be retiring again to come to a verdict in the trial which is continuing.