A solicitor is on trial in Edinburgh for offering to help return a stolen Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece in exchange for a reward. Marshall Ronald, 53, denies being part of a plot to extort £4.25 million from a Scottish duke. Ronald had sent a letter to a London loss adjuster claiming that he was acting on the behalf of clients who could assist in the painting's recovery.

Madonna of the Yarnwinder was taken from Drumlanrig Castle, in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, in 2003. The thieves posed as tourists; one brandished an axe.

The rare work, valued upwards of £20 million, was recovered in 2007. Five arrests were made, including three soliciters, although not for the theft. The painting is now on loan to the National Gallery of Scotland.

The trial continues.