The Queen Elizabeth II Law Courts, in Liverpool (200)

And referring to Melvin Coy and Gary Kays, both aged 25 and denying assisting an offender, continued: "Those who gave evidence had part of their testimony described as pathetic.

"Those who did not, had no answer to give.

"So from the prosecution’s point of view, you are damned if you do and damned if you don’t.

"We hope for a more balanced view from the jury."

In his closing speech, which comes after nearly two months of evidence, Mr Pratt said Mercer "had not been completely silent in the proceedings".

He reminded the jurors that Mercer had given police a pre-prepared statement through his lawyer.

And he said, Mercer had said "two all important words: not guilty".

And Mr Pratt urged the jury to remember Mercer did not have to prove his innocence but it was up to the prosecution to prove his guilt.

He said: "On behalf of Sean Mercer, we will suggest to you that on the totality of the evidence you should not convict him."