A DOCTOR who examined a pensioner allegedly neglected at a Gwent nursing home told a court that staff at the home couldn't explain the woman's extensive injuries.

Eight workers at the Bryngwyn nursing home in Newbridge are accused of wilfully neglecting Gladys Thomas, 84, who suffered from schizophrenia, dementia and couldn't speak.

She was taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital on the evening of October 19, 2005, suffering from extensive injuries, including a fractured collar bone and bruising across her body.

Peter Booth, 45, of Pen Y Fan Close, Pentwyn, Evan Green, 45, of Gaynors, Fairwater, Cwmbran; Angela Johnson, 47, of Hector Avenue, Crumlin; Shibu Joseph, 32, of Gaer Park Drive, Newport; Ebenezer Ajiwe, 48, of Woodlands Terrace, Abercarn; John Ajewole, 53, of Victoria Terrace, Abercarn, Tahir Hayat, 30, of Coldra Road, Newport and Debra Richards, 45, of Brynawel, Bedwas, all deny wilful neglect.

Ms Thomas also had marks on her forearm which the prosecution said were consistent with ligature marks, Newport crown court heard. She died in hospital on October 27.

A senior house officer in accident and emergency on the night Ms Thomas was admitted, Dr Rosemary Rees, told the court that after examining her she contacted Bryngwyn to enquire about Ms Thomas' injuries.

She said: "I had concerns I couldn't explain what had caused the bruising and as detailed in my notes I phoned the nursing home and they could give me no clear reason as to why this bruising had occurred."

Earlier, a deputy sister in A & E, Louise Rose, told the jury the extent of Ms Thomas' injuries prompted her to fill out a critical incident form, which is done when staff notice anything out of the ordinary.

Dr Rees said she did now know who she spoke to on the phone, only that he was male.

He told her that when Ms Thomas came to Bryngwyn on September 23 she had widespread bruising "but definite areas were not mentioned."

The former Bryngwyn Nursing Home is now Millview House Lodge Nursing Home and is under new management.

Proceeding.