Victim's friend denying assault

A man stabbed and left for dead along with murder victim Robert McCartney has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to an assault two years ago.

Brendan Devine was stabbed during the fracas at Magennis's bar on 30 January after which Mr McCartney was murdered.

Mr Devine, 34, of Mayfield Village, Glengormley, denies malicious wounding and grievous bodily harm.

He and another man were released on bail by Belfast Crown Court. A trial date has yet to be set.

Mr Devine's co-accused Hugh Patrick McCormick, 41, of Stanfield Street, Belfast was jointly charged with wounding.

He faced an additional four other charges, including possessing a knife, all of which he denies.