A 29-year-old Timperley man has denied assaulting a photographer during a so-called ‘yellow vest’ protest last month.
At Manchester Magistrates’ Court today, James Goddard, of Kelvindale Drive, pleaded not guilty to assaulting Manchester Evening News photographer Joel Goodman.
The incident is alleged to have taken place in Manchester city centre on February 9th, during a demonstration.
The MEN reported that Goddard, who arrived at court with a number of supporters in tow, demanded that members of media be removed.
“I don’t want the media in here, get them out, I want my family and friends here,” he said.
He is also said to have called one journalist “scum” and a member of the “far leftist BBC”.
He pleaded not guilty to charges of assault and a public order offence, and of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour to provoke fear of unlawful violence.
District Judge John Temperley adjourned the case with a trial at Manchester Magistrates’ Court set for June 25th.
As part of his bail conditions, Goddard must not contact Mr Goodman or attend any organised demonstration in Manchester city centre.
