By Martin Fell

The Stephen Lawrence murder trial has begun at the Old Bailey, 18 years after the teenager was stabbed to death at a bus stop in south-east London.

Gary Dobson, 36, and David Norris, 35, have been accused of murdering the student on April 22nd 1993.

Both Stephen's parents – Doreen and Neville – were at the court to witness the start of the trial.

The jury for the high-profile case is expected to be sworn in tomorrow (Tuesday November 15th).

Mark Ellison QC will lead the prosecution and Dobson and Norris will be defended by Timothy Roberts and Stephen Batten respectively.

Speaking to the Daily Mail ahead of the trial, Mr Lawrence said: "I've waited 18 years. I look forward to seeing justice at last. It has been a very long road."

Meanwhile, Mrs Lawrence told the news provider that she hopes that the family will "finally get justice for [Stephen]".

The original police investigation of the crime was deemed "institutionally racist" following an inquiry spearheaded by Sir William Macpherson.