Charles Bronson does 'celebratory jig' as cleared of attacking prison governor

Notorious prisoner Charles Bronson performed a ‘celebratory jig’ as he was cleared of attempting to seriously harm a prison governor.

Bronson, 66, was said to have lunged at Mark Docherty as he entered a room for a welfare meeting at HMP Wakefield on January 25.

He landed on top of Mr Docherty and screamed “I will bite your f***ing nose off and gouge your eyes out”, before prison officers intervened and restrained him.

Representing himself at Leeds Crown Court, Bronson, often referred to as Britain’s most dangerous prisoner, claimed he had intended to give Mr Docherty a “gentle bear hug” and whisper in his ear, but tripped, or was tripped by someone, and fell.

Jurors were told how, prior to his wedding to the actress Paula Williamson at the prison in November 2017, Bronson had been told he and his new wife would be given 22 wedding photographs, all taken by prison staff, and no guests would be allowed to take their own pictures.

But Mr Docherty said staff decided not to give the pictures to Ms Williamson after hearing that among the guests was a member of the “paparazzi” who had previously had their press licence taken away, and a prankster who entered the pitch at Stoke City Football Club with the words “Free Charles Bronson” written on the back of his prisoner-style outfit.

Bronson said he intended to whisper “where’s my wife’s photos?” in what he described as a “wake-up call” to the governor to not mess with his family.

Jurors found Bronson not guilty of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent, after deliberating for just short of three hours on Thursday.

Appearing on video link from HMP Frankland, in County Durham, Bronson – who has changed his name to Charles Salvador – pursed his lips together after the verdict was delivered by the jury foreman and then did a celebratory jig as he waved his arms around.

Judge Tom Bayliss QC said to the defendant: “You seem pleased with that, Mr Salvador. You are discharged from this.”

Before the link to the court was cut Bronson smiled and replied: “British justice, best in the world. Thank you.”

His supporters in the public gallery welcomed the jury’s decision and laughed.