Former armed robber John McVicar has been cleared of attacking a neighbour in a row over a dog

Former armed robber John McVicar has been cleared of attacking a neighbour in a row over a dog. McVicar, who turned his back on crime for a career in broadcasting and journalism 18 years ago, was alleged to have butted the man, breaking his nose and leaving him covered in blood.

The jury at Kingston Crown Court unanimously accepted that the 56-year- old, who conducted his own defence during the four-day trial, had only been trying to defend himself against Scott Caisley, an advertising company executive less than half his age. After the verdict, Judge John Baker told McVicar - a sought-after criminologist who prides himself on his fitness and the fact that he works out every day - that he had presented his case "successfully with great skill and ability".