Guinness Premiership
Vainikolo in the clear
Scrum.com
September 29, 2009
Gloucester wing Lesley Vainikolo break clear of Scott Gray, Gloucester v Northampton, Guinness Premiership, Kingsholm, September 19, 2009
Lesley Vainikolo had been accused of punching a fan outside a Bath nightclub last year © Getty Images
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Gloucester's Lesley Vainikolo has had charges of causing grievous bodily harm made against him dropped.

The 30-year-old winger had been accused of punching Jake Alicker shortly after leaving the Second Bridge nightclub in Bath in the early hours of October 26 last year. During his subsequent trial at Bristol Crown Court Vainikolo admitted to striking Mr. Alicker but insisted that he had been acting in self defence.

Earlier this month, a jury failed to reach a verdict on the case and while a retrial had been mooted, the Crown Prosecution Service announced on Tuesday morning that it had discontinued its case against Tonga-born England international.

"I'm free. I'd like to thank God for this day and this great news," Vainikolo said as he left court. "I would like to thank my barrister, my wife and son who have been there for me through thick and thin.

"The last year has been hell and I am lucky that my family and friends throughout the world have supported me. The prayers and the love have kept me sane. I would also like to thank Gloucester Rugby for having faith in me throughout this time."

Vainikolo claimed that justice had been done and is now determined to put the whole episode behind him.

"I would never lie, I told the truth and had God on my side. If you hide the truth you will be found out," he said. "I can get on with my life now. I am just going to concentrate on my rugby and spend more time with my family."

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