Twaddell camp flag theft charge thrown out

London-based Jason Small, 35, faced a charge of theft for allegedly taking the flag valued at £5 in March last year.

But the case against him was dismissed after no evidence was advanced.

Mr Small, also with an address at Carrickbawn Park in Rostrevor, Co Down, had been accused of stealing a flag belonging to Gerald Solinas.

The charge centred on an alleged incident in the Twaddell Avenue, where a camp was set up in protest at restrictions on an Orange Order parade.

The defendant attended Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday to contest the claim against him.

However, the planned trial did not proceed.

District Judge Amanda Henderson instead confirmed the charge was being dismissed.

Outside court Mr Small’s solicitor, Michael Brentnall, said: “My client is delighted to have his name cleared.

“This has been a massive inconvenience for him, having to return to Belfast for a case that never ultimately proceeded.”