Countdown host Rachel Riley wins libel case against blogger over ‘harassment campaign’ article

Rachel Riley’s online discussion was described by the judge as a ‘straightforward, rational and respectful exchange of views’ (Peter Powell/PA)

Countdown presenter Rachel Riley has won a High Court libel battle against a political blogger and Jeremy Corbyn supporter over an article which alleged she engaged in a “campaign of online abuse and harassment” against a teenager on Twitter.

Ms Riley sued Mike Sivier, who published an article on his website Vox Political in January 2019 with the headline: “Serial abuser Rachel Riley to receive ‘extra protection’ – on grounds that she is receiving abuse.”