Councillor cleared of one abuse charge

The jury in the trial of David Tweed – who played rugby for both Ulster and Ireland – will resume deliberations this morning on another 13 charges of sexual abuse on two girls a number of years ago.

After five hours the jury – made up of 10 women and two men – returned with a majority verdict of not guilty on the third charge which relates to one of the alleged victims.

Earlier Judge Alistair Devlin told the jury in Antrim Crown Court that they must have a majority of at least 10 to two to reach a verdict in each of the 14 charges which Tweed faces.

The charges include indecent assault, gross indecency with a child and incitement to commit an act of gross indecency with a child.

One of the alleged victims was in court accompanied by family and relatives as the jury returned to court with their verdict. She wept and embraced a family member as the verdict of not guilty was read out.

Both of the girls – who are now adults – gave evidence during the trial which has lasted over three weeks.

Last week Tweed took the stand and denied each of the allegations made against him.

Tweed faces five counts from the first alleged victim and nine counts from the second alleged victim.

On Monday Judge Devlin said jurors should decide on the basis of the evidence presented during the three-week hearing.

He also told them to clear their minds of sympathy and put aside any prejudices

Tweed, who has represented Ballymena South as a councillor since 1997, has been suspended from the TUV pending the outcome of the trial.