One of the men accused of delivering a “sickening” kick to Ben Gardner’s head has been painted as a “polite young man without a disposition for violence” by his defence barrister.

The jury at the Old Bailey were told family and friends described Daniel Ransom, 21, as “hard-working and friendly”.

Mr Dean said although Mr Ransom had stolen a car when he was just 12-years-old, he was a man of “excellent character”.

Mr Dean emphasised his client had consumed a cocktail of alcohol, cocaine and “substantial” amounts of cannabis on the night Mr Gardner died, which may have affected his judgment.

He said his client had “only been arrested for nicking a car and smoking some dope” in the past.

The trial continues.

Click here for full coverage of the Ben Gardner murder trial