A pro-Brexit ‘yellow vest’ leader demanded journalists be removed from court before denying assaulting a regional press photographer at a demonstration.

James Goddard, pictured, pleaded not guilty at Manchester Magistrates’ Court this morning to assaulting Manchester Evening News photographer Joel Goodman.

The alleged incident is said to have taken place in Manchester city centre on 9 February, during a demonstration.

According to the MEN, Goddard walked into the courtroom today and demanded members of the media be removed.

He told the court: “I don’t want the media in here, get them out, I want my family and friends here.”

Goddard, of Altrincham, also labelled one journalist “scum” and said he was a member of the “far leftist BBC”.

The 29-year-old pleaded not guilty to common assault and to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to provoke fear of unlawful violence.

Goddard, who represented himself in court, said: “There is no case to answer.”

District Judge John Temperley adjourned the case until 25 June for trial.

As part of his bail conditions, Goddard must not contact Joel or attend any organised demonstration in Manchester city centre.

Goddard told the court: “That’s fine.”