December 10, 2009 16:37

Shakin' Stevens takes to the stand in 'microphone bashing' case

Singer accused of assaulting photographer

Photo: PA Photos

Shakin' Stevens has taken to the stand in a trial over claims he assaulted a freelance photographer during a gig in Northern Ireland.

Hugo McNeice alleges that Stevens, real name Michael Barrett, broke his camera with his microphone stand as he performed at Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena last December.

Two members of Stevens' band denied that the singer hit Mr McNiece, but admitted that he used his mic stand to block him form taking pictures, reports BBC News.

Stevens, speaking in Ballymena Magistrates' Court today (December 10), said he was surprised at the small size of the stage, adding that the audience had been told not to take photographs during the gig.

One female witness who was also called to the stand said she saw Stevens hit McNeice. However, during her cross examination she was questioned about a message she had written on McNeice's Bebo page, saying: "Can't let my good buddy down – shaking all over."