A MAN has been cleared of a "petrol bomb" grudge attack on a village butcher's shop.

Richard Trickett, 20, was found not guilty of attempted arson after the prosecution offered no evidence, at Burnley Crown Court.

The court was told the prosecution could not put any direct evidence before a jury to say the defendant was involved.

Trickett, of Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth, had denied attempted arson at the Riley brothers shop and premises in Burnley Road, last November 26.

Recorder Anthony Cross, QC recorded a not guilty verdict.

Trickett had been due to face trial on Monday but a witness had failed to turn up. Prosecutor Gareth Jones told the court he was concerned about the state of the crown's evidence and that was compounded by the witness not attendinf.

Forensic tests had shown Trickett had brick dust on his clothing, but it was not from the brick thrown through the shop window.