There were jubilant scenes outside Manchester Magistrates' Court today, following the dismissal of two disputed cases against `Peaceful' Daniel Evans, 23, and Tristan Woodwards, 30, prominent champions of Barton Moss Community Protection Camp.
The two were tried in front of a packed out public gallery, charged with Section 4 and Section 5 public order offences, but the evidence against them didn't stand up. The key witnesses, all IGas security guards, contradicted each other's stories, while another failed to even turn up.
"One of the witnesses called me 'coloured'," said Dan, still bemused by the charges brought against him, "I don't think it helped their case because the judge was black as well."
The pair were defended in court by Emily Lloyd of Robert Lizar Solicitors, and Simon Pook, of Lizar's told the Salford Star "No case was offered against Tristan, the witness against him didn't turn up. The Crown could have applied to have the case adjourned until the afternoon and have him brought to court but they didn't do it because the case wasn't strong and instead decided that they wouldn't progress.
"Then the two witnesses against Dan contradicted each other, under cross examination from Emily" he added "We'd call it a half time submission but it was so bad it didn't get to half time."
Tristan, a citizen journalist who broadcast live streams of the protests online, said of today's triumphs, "This is the first of many victories to come for the protectors of Barton Moss. Justice has prevailed, the fight continues and we won't stop".
Their cases were the first of numerous due to take place over the coming months, following a string of contentious arrests made at the Salford protection camp. The most notable is that of Kate McCann, who was arrested at the site and remains in jail until tomorrow, when a court could remand him for a further six months without a trial actually taking place. He is considered to be a political prisoner by human rights organisation The Green and Black Cross.
The protectors' efforts to oppose plans to erect controversial fracking rigs have not gone unnoticed, and they have been nominated for this year's Observer Ethical Awards. You can cast your vote here - http://www.theguardian.com/observer-ethical-awards/2014/apr/22/observer-ethical-awards-vote
As the sun beat down over the law courts in the hectic business district, the protectors left in high spirits, confident that further success lies over the horizon.
Words by Longtom Richardson
Photos by Climate James
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