Ryan Hale has been cleared after the judge presiding over the case, Peter Blair QC, directed the jury to enter a not guilty verdict.

Mr Blair told the court: “I have come to the conclusion that I should exercise my responsibility of directing you that there is no case to answer against Ryan Hale”.

Hale, along with his friend Ryan Ali and Stokes, was charged for his part in the fight that took place outside the Mbargo nightclub last September.

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The trial, which was expected to last between five and seven days, continues, with Stokes beginning to give evidence on Thursday.