Wales and Newcastle soccer star Craig Bellamy appeared in court today to deny two charges of racially aggravated behaviour.
The 23-year-old striker, of Jesmond Park Mews, Newcastle, was dressed in a dark suit and a lilac tie as he stood in the dock before Cardiff magistrates.
He spoke to confirm his personal details and plead not guilty to two charges of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, which were racially aggravated.
The charges arise from an alleged incident in the early hours of March 24 this year in the area of the Jumpin Jaks nightspot in Cardiff's Millennium Plaza.
Another charge of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour was withdrawn.
The case was adjourned for a committal hearing to the Crown Court next month.
Bellamy was given unconditional bail.
Graham Shear, of Teacher Stern Selby solicitors, made a statement on behalf of Craig Bellamy which said: ''With respect to his appearance in court this morning, Craig Bellamy will be vigorously defending the allegations and has pleaded not guilty to the charges. There will be no other comment at this time.''
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article