A man accused of murdering his wife who disappeared from Deal 20 years ago has been described as caring, loving, loyal and generous by his second wife.

“He can be quite old-fashioned but I like that,” Debbie Griggs told Canterbury Crown Court.

Her husband Andrew Griggs, 57, is accused of killing his first wife, also called Debbie. He has denied the charge.

Mrs Griggs told the jury that she married Griggs in September 2010 after knowing him for eight years.

He had told her about his first wife’s disappearance from their home in Deal 20 years ago.

She said after their marriage she would help her husband with the financial side of his business making model boats.

She then started her own business sculpting model figures for the boats.

Mrs Griggs said she had a good relationship with her husband and added: “We have disagreements, but we have never had a row. Andy does not do that.”

A statement made by Paula Bradley, who used to work in the freezer shop in Deal owner by the Griggs in 1999, was read to the court.

In it Ms Bradley said she knew the couple were having difficulties in their marriage.

One day while in the shop she saw Debbie Griggs come in and start hitting her husband with clenched fists.

“She did not look right and her eyes were funny,” Ms Bradley’s statement said. “Debbie came into the shop a few days later and demanded the cheque books. She was very intimidating.

Read more from the trial:

• Andrew Griggs denies asking wife to have abortion

• Andrew said wife 'ranted at him then flung her bag over her shoulder and left'

• 'Out of character' for Deal mother to leave

• Husband 'murdered' pregnant wife Debbie Griggs in midst of fling with 15-year-old, court hears

• Man accused of killing wife who vanished claims she had 'gone walkabouts'

“I knew Andy had started divorce proceedings. He was very upset and decided he couldn’t do it.”

After his wife’s disappearance Ms Bradley said Griggs was morose and said to her: “What if she never comes back.”

Another worker at the freezer shop said she found Debbie Griggs to be pleasant but one day she saw her come into the shop, punch her husband and bite him on the arm.

“She demanded the company cheque books and refused to leave without them,” her statement said.

“She was agitated and very forceful about the cheque books. Andy said to her, say goodbye to the company and Debbie said no, say goodbye to you.”

The trial continues.

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