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22 April 2008 | R v Olly Barkley | Back to News List

"Barkley relief after case thrown out"

OLLY BARKLEY today had the case against him of causing actual bodily harm
dismissed due to a lack of evidence.

The Bath Rugby and England fly half has vigorously protested his innocence
since the allegations were made last July.

And following a hearing today at Aylesbury Crown Court, proceedings were
dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Barkley said: "I am really pleased that I am now able to put this behind me.
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 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 and having selected him 21 times this season, 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."

RFU Elite Rugby Director Rob Andrew and team manager for England`s New
Zealand tour 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 be under consideration for the
New Zealand tour squad to be announced on Tuesday May 13.

Damian Hopley, CEO of the Professional Rugby Players Association commented:

"I am delighted that the case against Olly has been dropped. It is a
tremendous credit to his professionalism that he has been able to put this
unwarranted burden to one side whilst playing some of the best rugby of
his career for Bath."

22 April 2008

R v Olly Barkley

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