Bellamy in court on race hate charges

Wales and Newcastle star Craig Bellamy appeared in court today to deny two charges of racially-aggravated behaviour.

The 23-year-old striker, of Jesmond Park Mews, Newcastle, was dressed in a dark suit and a lilac tie as he stood in the dock before Cardiff magistrates.

He spoke to confirm his personal details and plead not guilty to two charges of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, which were racially aggravated.

The charges arise from an alleged incident in the early hours of March 24 this year in the area of the Jumpin Jaks nightspot in Cardiff's Millennium Plaza.

Another charge of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour was withdrawn.

The case was adjourned for a committal hearing to the Crown Court next month.
Bellamy was given unconditional bail.