Man denies Collymore race abuse

A law student has denied racially abusing former footballer Stan Collymore on Twitter.

Joshua Cryer, 21, of Jesmond, appeared at Newcastle magistrates' court to face a public order charge after a complaint was made by Mr Collymore, who is now a radio pundit.

Mr Cryer, a Newcastle University student, denied sending "grossly offensive" messages in January. The case was adjourned until a further hearing in April.

Mr Collymore, 40, who now works for Talksport, played for Liverpool, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest. He campaigns against racism and is a supporter of the Depression Alliance charity.