Jurors and the gallery reeled today in the ongoing case of Creighton v Vyse with the shocking allegation of cyber stalking.

Gilligan, for the plaintiff, accused witness Martin Stower of being an internet stalker and stalking him and, thereby, placing his family in danger.

This serious accusation stems from a query from witness Stower as to the identity of John Snape - the art expert cited by Scott Creighton in his new book.

As John Snape has been presented as an expert witness on technical matters with regard to painting and brushwork, the members of the jury are entitled to know the credentials and expertise of such a witness. Creighton surely wouldn't use an incompetent person as his technical expert.

So, who is John Snape?

Gilligan has never denied or confirmed that he is John Snape. Why he has left the jury wondering if he may be the mysterious Snape, only Gilligan would know. But this matter needs addressing.

The jury was puzzled as to how this question and the few details provided by witness Stower could provide a basis for the allegation of cyber stalking.

Gilligan has more than once provided his email address, and has even invited members who may disagree withn him to email him for further discussion.

John Snape is clearly mentioned in Creighton's book, although his identity requires further clarification.

How do these details pose a danger to Gilligan's family?

As Gilligan is quite perturbed about this situation, it is incumbent upon Scott Creighton to provide clear evidence to the court that John Snape is not Gilligan, and not leave them in any further doubt.

In a curious twist to proceedings, the transcript of Gilligan's allegation is currently missing from the court records. Perhaps it is sub judice in preparation for a defamation case.

Court is adjourned.

lover