Violence breaks out at loyalist murder trial

Fighting broke out as a judge prepared to deliver his verdict today in the case of a brother and sister accused of involvement in the murder of a leading loyalist.

The family and friends of victim Jim Johnston, a member of the paramilitary Red Hand Commando, and supporters of the accused were involved.

The disturbance, on the top floor of Belfast Crown Court, lasted around five minutes and several people were hurt.

At one stage it was feared someone would be thrown from the fourth floor balcony.

Extra police officers from nearby Belfast High Court were brought in after the alarm was raised.

The men involved were asked to leave the building and some of them chanted: “LVF” as they were ejected.

Mr Johnston was shot 11 times outside his home in Crawfordsburn, Co Down, in May 2003.

Robert John Benson Young, 41, of Ulsterville Park in Portadown, denies murdering Mr Johnston.

His sister Lorraine, from Holywood, denies providing him with a false alibi.

Trial judge Mr Justice Higgins is expected to deliver his verdict this afternoon.