Darlington man cleared of sexually abusing young girl

Ben Collinson was accused of lifting up the youngster’s nightwear before carrying out the attack more than a decade ago.

The 46-year-old accepted that he wrote "I’m a paedo and proud" but told police officers he was just being "absurd" and there was no sexual abuse of the young girl.

Teesside Crown Court heard how Mr Collinson had a "dark" sense of humour and maintained that he was never attracted to the young girl.

His barrister, Adrian Eissa KC, quizzed his client about the allegation made by the youngster.

Giving evidence, Collinson told the jury that it never took place.

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He asked: “Did you go in, put the light on your phone on... and touch her in the way she has suggested?”

Mr Collinson replied: “No.”

Jurors took about two hours of deliberations to return a not guilty verdict.

Mr Collinson was told he was free to leave the dock by the judge, Recorder Mark McKone KC.