A KIDDERMINSTER man has been cleared of seven charges after the prosecution offered no evidence at Worcester Crown Court.

Mark Addleton, 33, of Witley Close, pleaded not guilty to robbery, kidnap, theft, assault with intent to rob and two assaults causing actual bodily harm.

He also pleaded not guilty to having an offensive weapon, a machete, in a public place.

When the case came before the court for trial, prosecutor Guy Spollon said a principal witness was wanted by police in connection with a robbery but had gone on the run.

The decision had been made not to proceed against Mr Addleton.

Judge Ian Morris award-ed him his defence costs.