Rugby star's GBH charge dropped

Lesley Vainikolo said he wanted to concentrate on his family and rugby

A charge against England rugby player Lesley Vainikolo of allegedly causing grievous bodily harm has been dropped.

Mr Vainikolo, 30, was accused of punching Jake Aliker outside a nightclub in Bath in October 2008.

A jury failed to reach a verdict at his trial at Bristol Crown Court earlier this month.

The Crown Prosecution Service had been considering a retrial, but has now discontinued its case against the Gloucester player.

"The CPS decided not to proceed with the prosecution because the victim felt he could not go through with giving evidence again at a second trial.," said a CPS spokesperson.

"We have taken his wishes into account and do not feel a second trial would best serve the public interest."

Mr Vainikolo originally had two assault charges laid against him, but the more serious charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent was dropped earlier in September.

He had previously entered not guilty pleas to both charges.

He told the court at a previous hearing that he had punched Mr Aliker to protect himself after becoming scared and intimidated by his aggressive and threatening behaviour.

Speaking after the charge was dropped on Tuesday, Mr Vainikolo said: "I would never lie. I told the truth and had God on my side. If you hide the truth you will be found out.

"I can get on with my life now. I am just going to concentrate on my rugby and spend more time with my family."

A spokesman for Gloucester Rugby Club said: "The club are happy that Lesley can now put the incident behind him and focus 100% on his rugby for the rest of the season."

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