A newspaper reporter successfully fought for reporting restrictions to be lifted on naming a persistent graffiti vandal.

John Hugill, a senior reporter on the Trinity Mirror-owned Uxbridge Gazette series in North West London, argued his case before magistrates at Uxbridge Youth Court.

The 23-year-old stated that, under the Crime (Sentences) Act 1997, section 49 of the Children and Young Person’s Act 1933 (which gives automatic anonymity to under 18s in youth court) should be lifted in the public interest.

John, who has been at the paper for 18 months, said: “My main reasons were that the boy had persistently offended, had cost £1,810 of damage and was at an age where he knew the gravity of what he had done.

“He was not vulnerable enough to be adversely affected by being named.”

Reporting restrictions were lifted and the paper was able to name the 16-year-old who admitted daubing graffiti at Hayes and Yeading Football Club and on four buses.

John added: “I began my application by contacting the local council and asking them to support my campaign.

“They supplied the court and myself with a letter of support, stating they agreed it was in the public interest to name the boy.

“I also got the local police on side, bringing an officer with me to the case. The Crown Prosecution Service worker also supported me on the day.

“Before going into court, I had a quick word with the usher to hand over the council letter and to ask him to tell the clerk I would like to speak to magistrates in court about raising restrictions.”

Magistrates retired to consider the decision but soon returned to tell John the good news.

He added: “Unfortunately they would not allow us to use a photo, or name a school, or street but I was still delighted.

“It was a real coup for being able to report the truth and tell people what is happening. I feel like we have made a real breakthrough and hopefully this can set a benchmark for future applications to the court.”

Chairman of the presiding magistrates, Michael Lourie, told the court: “We feel it’s in the interests of justice and will reinforce law and order.

“He was aware of the problems he was causing. He is 16 and should know better.”