Sergeant Russell Price, Sergeant Paul Blake and Corporal John Edwards all deny the manslaughter of Private Gavin Williams at Lucknow Barracks in Tidworth, on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire.

Twelve potential jury members and six reserves were selected and then sent home. The case was adjourned until Thursday, when the prosecution is expected to open its case.

Pte Williams, 22, from Hengoed in South Wales, who was part of the Second Battalion the Royal Welsh Regiment, collapsed on July 3 2006 and died later that day.

Sgt Blake, 37, and Cpl Edwards, 45, both from the 2nd Battalion Royal Welsh Regiment, and Sgt Price, 45, of 2 Rifles, are standing trial at Winchester Crown Court.