The ex-footballer made an apology to the Channel 5 presenter on Twitter/X where he admitted he did not believe Mr Vine had a “sexual interest in children” after labelling him a “big bike nonce” and a “pedo defender”.
Mr Barton faced legal action from the TV and radio presenter over 14 online posts and had been raising funds from supporters to defend his “battle for freedom of speech”. Mr Vine took the ex-footballer to court for libel and harassment, following a social media exchange over Mr Barton’s criticism of women’s involvement in men’s football.
In an apology post on X, Mr Barton said: “Between 8 and 12 January 2024 I published 11 posts which accused Jeremy Vine of having a sexual interest in children, and created a hashtag which made the same allegations, which were viewed millions of times. I recognise that this is a very serious allegation. It is untrue. I do not believe that Mr Vine has a sexual interest in children, and I wish to set the record straight.
This story is from the June 19, 2024 edition of The Independent.
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This story is from the June 19, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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