A RAPE trial took an unexpected turn yesterday when a jury acquitted a man before hearing any evidence in his favour.

Stuart McSkelly, 28, was accused of raping and beating a young mother in her home after she returned from a night out with friends.

But after the prosecution presented its case against him, defence barrister Euan Duff made an application to Judge Guy Whitburn that the jury should be asked if they had heard enough evidence to make a decision.

After just moments of deliberation the jury delivered their unanimous verdicts of not guilty on charges of rape and making a threat to kill.

Mr McSkelly, of Charlaw Close, Sacriston, County Durham, was greeted by elated friends and family who were waiting for him outside the court.

After the hearing, Mr Duff said: "In an unusual move by the judge he informed the jury of their right to stop the trial if they felt they had heard enough evidence.

"It proves they did not think the case was strong enough against him to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt."