ENGLAND
The Westmorland Gazette
February 13, 2018
ONE of five men on trial over alleged historical physical abuse of pupils at a South Cumbria boarding school has been found not guilty of the only charge he was facing.
John Studley was acquitted of one assault allegation on the direction of a judge at Carlisle Crown Court.
Mr Studley, aged 66, had denied a charge which alleged that he was involved in the assault of one boy at Underley Hall School, near Kirkby Lonsdale. This was alleged to have occurred during the mid to late 1980s.
Mr Studley, of Silverdale, Lancashire, was found not guilty today after the alleged victim gave evidence during week three of the hearing.
After legal discussions, Judge James Adkin told the jury: “Ladies and gentlemen, you have heard evidence from that particular witness concerning his recollection of events at the school.
“In fact, he had been called to deal with count nine on your indictment (the alleged assault by Mr Studley). I am going to withdraw that count from your consideration and there is no evidence to prove the allegation against Mr Studley.
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