Man denies Market Drayton attack on three brothers
A man accused of launching an unprovoked attack on three brothers with a metal bar told a jury he was at home in bed while the assault was taking place.
James Morgan said it was a case of mistaken identity, despite the fact all three alleged victims picked him out as the assailant in separate police identification parades, Shrewsbury Crown Court heard.
Morgan is alleged to have hurled abuse at brothers Daniel, Paul and Joshua Mackintosh and friends while in his car in Market Drayton, before coming back and striking the brothers with a metal baton and driving off.
On the night of the incident, the brothers were out with their father and friends for a charity fundraising night at the town's British Legion Club in aid of the football team they play for – Market Drayton Tigers.
The jury heard Paul Mackintosh was the most seriously injured, suffering a near two-inch cut to the back of his head which needed five stitches, a broken finger and bruising and swelling.
Morgan, 26, denies six counts relating to grievous bodily harm, assault and possessing an offensive weapon. The alleged attack took place in Shropshire Street, Market Drayton, on November 16, 2013.
Taking to the stand yesterday under cross-examination, prosecuting counsel Mr David Bright asked him: "It was you who attacked those men, wasn't it?"
Morgan replied: "No. I would have been in bed. I wasn't going out at that time, I was unemployed and I didn't have the money."
Mr Bright continued: "Your case is that you are completely innocent of this crime?"
"Yes," Morgan replied.
"I don't recall leaving my flat at all that day."
The trial continues.
