Comic claims wrongful arrest over Stuart Lubbock's death

Michael Barrymore has launched his bid for £2.5million for wrongful arrest in the High Court.

The entertainer is seeking substantial damages for being held over the death of Stuart Lubbock.

The 31-year-old butcher was found floating in the swimming pool of Barrymore’s home near Harlow in Essex in 2001. 

Post-mortem tests suggested he had been the victim of sexual assault, and his bloodstream contained ecstasy, cocaine and alcohol.

Barrymore was arrested six years later, with two other men, but released without charge.

Stating his case in court, Barrymore’s lawyer said the arrest was based on nothing more than rumour – and that it destroyed the comedian’s career and reputation once it was reported in the global press.

Essex police have previously argued that  Barrymore should get a ‘nominal’ award of £1.

No one has ever been charged over the death of Mr Lubbock.

The case continues.

Published: 22 May 2017