On Saturday a celebrity television show aired haunting footage of Reeva Steenkamp speaking about the need to leave a positive mark on life, words laden with poignancy after her death.

"Not just your journey in life, but the way that you go out and make your exit is so important, you have either made an impact in a positive way or a negative way," she said. Pistorius, who broke down in sobs during his first court appearance on Friday, has built up a powerful team of lawyers, medical specialists and public relations experts for his defence. Stuart Higgins, a former editor of British tabloid The Sun, whose lengthy list of clients includes British Airways, Chelsea FC and Manchester United football club, has taken over his public relations. One of the lawyers, Kenny Oldwage, defended the driver in a 2010 accident that killed former president Nelson Mandela's great-grandchild Zenani. The driver was acquitted. A global inspirational figure, Pistorius was the first double amputee to compete against able-bodied athletes in the 2012 London Olympic Games. His nickname was inspired by his custom-built carbon-fibre running blades. The Johannesburg-born runner had both legs amputated below the knee when he was 11 months old after being born without lower leg bones. The killing has put his career on hold, forcing him to cancel races in Australia, Brazil, Britain and the United States between March and May. (AFP) PDS ATK 02191513 NNNN