A MAN jailed for a vicious attack on an elderly woman more than three years ago has been charged with her murder.

Benjamin Brough, formerly of Shaw Place, Leek, was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent after breaking into Ada Hopkinson's home in March 2005.

Mrs Hopkinson, who was 94 at the time of the assault, was discovered lying in her hallway with head injuries.

After a four day trial at Stafford Crown Court, Brough was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Mrs Hopkins, who lived in Leek, never recovered from the assault and died in February this year, aged 97.

Today, Staffordshire Crown Prosecution Service announced that Brough, who was 17 at the time of the attack, was being charged with her murder.

Sue Hanson, Senior Crown Prosecutor for Staffordshire said: "Brough had previously been charged and convicted in relation to the assault on Ada Hopkinson. The new evidence relating to her subsequent death has been considered and it has been decided that there is now sufficient evidence to charge Brough with the murder of Ada Hopkinson.

"A defendant can only be prosecuted for the second time in this way, with consent of the Attorney General. The file has been submitted to her office and the consent has been given."

Brough will appear at North Staffordshire Magistrates' court soon in connection with the new charge.