Barkley case dropped
Tue, 22 Apr 2008 22:56
Bath's England flyhalf Olly Barkley is a free man after the case against him of causing bodily harm was dismissed due to a lack of evidence.
The No.10 has vigorously protested his innocence since the allegations, that he had assaulted a fellow guest at a wedding, were made last July.
And following a hearing at Aylesbury Crown Court on Tuesday proceedings were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service.
An obviously delighted Barkley said he is now ready to move on.
"I am really pleased that I am now able to put this behind me," Barkley said.
"I refused to allow it to affect me on the pitch, and hopefully my performances have demonstrated that. But now I am just happy to move on from it and do what I can to bring home some silverware this season."
The 26-year-old was represented in court by barrister Stephen Ferguson and solicitor Richard Mallett, who presented numerous witness statements attesting to the player's professionalism, dedication and character.
Barkley added: "I have had so much support from my friends, family and the club during this whole time and they have helped me keep focused. I would also like to thank Richard Mallett for his sustained effort in getting this case dropped."
Barkley has amassed 179 points for Bath Rugby since his return from the Rugby World Cup.
Bath head coach Steve Meehan said: "Olly's performances this season are testament to the fact that this has not affected him in any way on the pitch, but now he has the space to focus entirely on continuing his success until the end of the season."
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) Elite Rugby Director and team manager for England's New Zealand tour Rob Andrew added: "We are all delighted for Olly. This has been hanging over him for nine months and it must have been a very anxious time.
"However, he has focused on his club rugby and been a driving force behind Bath Rugby's success this season. He will of course be under consideration for the New Zealand tour squad to be announced on Tuesday May 13."
