Two brothers have been found guilty of the murder of Anthony Littler more than four decades after the hate crime attack in north London. Michael and Anthony Stewart were convicted at the Old Bailey for killing Mr Littler in East Finchley in 1984. The victim was subjected to a homophobic assault, in what prosecutors described as a brutal and sustained attack. The brothers are due to be sentenced on 3 July.
Separately, archaeologists have uncovered Britain's earliest known prehistoric art inside a cave at a beauty spot. The engravings, believed to be more than 17,000 years old, feature abstract designs and animal figures. Their exact meaning remains a mystery, but experts say the discovery reshapes understanding of early human activity in the region. The cave is located in a protected area, and the find has been described as of national importance.
“Brothers Michael and Anthony Stewart convicted of 1984 hate crime murder of Anthony Littler; Britain's earliest prehistoric art (over 17,000 years old) found in a cave.”
The murder case took 42 years to reach a conclusion, with the Crown Prosecution Service saying it was one of the longest-running hate crime investigations in England. Mr Littler, 36, was walking home when he was set upon by the brothers and a third man who has since died. The attack was unprovoked and motivated by hostility towards the victim's sexuality. Michael Stewart, 65, and Anthony Stewart, 63, denied involvement but were convicted after a retrial.
In Somerset, the cave art was discovered by a team from the University of Bristol during a survey of known archaeological sites. The carvings include images of birds and geometric patterns, similar to those found in France and Spain. The site is not open to the public to protect the fragile engravings. Researchers are using advanced dating techniques to confirm the age and plan further studies.
For the Littler family, the verdict brings closure after years of campaigning for justice. Anthony Littler's sister said the brothers' conviction was a 'long-overdue vindication'. The Stewarts will remain in custody until sentencing. The case has prompted calls for greater awareness of historic hate crimes and support for victims' families.
The archaeological find adds to Britain's rich prehistoric heritage, placing the cave among significant European sites. The findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal later this year. The National Trust, which manages the area, said it would work with experts to preserve the art while considering appropriate access.
What this means for you: The conviction demonstrates that historic hate crimes can still be prosecuted, offering hope to victims and families. The cave discovery underscores the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites across the UK. While the cave is not open to the public, similar prehistoric art may exist elsewhere, and ongoing research could reveal more about Britain's ancient past.