Twitter user to pay BBC journalist six-figure sum for defamatory actions

A twitter ‘troll’ has apologised and agreed to pay a six-figure bill in damages after trying to damage the reputation of BBC radio and TV presenter Stephen Nolan.

Nolan, a presenter on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio 5 Live, said the user ran a “malicious campaign designed to undermine me and hinder my journalism” through different twitter accounts. He has agreed not to identify the individual behind the accounts.

The anonymous tweeter admitted their actions “involved the systematic dissemination of false and defamatory allegations” after their identify was traced by the journalist. This included a petition set up to damage Nolan’s professional reputation based on “entirely on false and defamatory allegations”.

Their Belfast-based lawyer issued a statement apologising on their behalf and confirming the twitter accounts used had been deleted. They also agreed to pay Nolan’s legal costs.

Paul Tweed, Nolan’s libel lawyer, said the individual had been notified of legal action in person. He said: “There was immediate contrition and categoric statements of regret, with the individual pleading for anonymity due to his expressed personal security concerns.”

Nolan said the outcome “should be a warning to all trolls” as his lawyer confirmed legal letters had been served to others sharing similar false allegations.