The ex-girlfriend of a marine killed on duty while serving in Afghanistan is contesting his £300,000 will, claiming she is entitled to a larger share.
Sgt John Manuel died in 2008 when a 13-year-old suicide bomber detonated explosives.
Sunderland county court heard that Sgt Manuel made his will in 2002 and left his entire estate to his mother, Pauline. But his legacy is being challenged by his former lover.
Rachel Douglas, 36, contacted solicitors to argue her claim for a bigger share of Sgt Manuel's will.
Weeks before what was to be Sgt Manuel's final tour, the marine asked his brother, Trevor, to give Ms Douglas £10,000 if he died.
The marine's former partner argues that their six-year relationship was extremely close and she had contributed to Sgt Manuel's mortgage and bills at their shared home in Durham.
The Manuel family defends the dead marine because he had tried to end the stormy relationship several times over the years. It is also believed he had several relationships with women, although Ms Douglas said the couple were in a committed relationship.
The court also heard that in the past year, Ms Douglas has run up many thousands of pounds of debt.
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