John Terry racism trial: Verdict due in Ferdinand case........

 

John Terry was surrounded by the media as he arrived for the verdict.

A verdict is expected later in the racism trial of former England captain John Terry.

Mr Terry, 31, has been at Westminster Magistrates' Court facing allegations he racially abused QPR's Anton Ferdinand. They exchanged insults during a Premier League match.

The Chelsea captain, who denies a racially-aggravated public order offence, has arrived at the court.

If guilty, the maximum sentence he could face is a £2,500 fine.

It is alleged he insulted Mr Ferdinand in a match between Chelsea and Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road, describing him as "black" and employing extreme sexual swear words.

Lip reader and sign language interpreter Susan Whitewood concurred the language had been used.

Mr Terry's defence was that he was repeating what Anton Ferdinand had incorrectly accused him of saying.

Chief Magistrate Howard Riddle is expected to give his verdict this afternoon.

Mr Ferdinand earlier told the court: "When someone brings your colour into it, it takes it to another level and it's very hurtful."

Mr Terry has described himself as "angry and upset" over the claims.