A JUDGE granted an "act of mercy" to allow a man facing a jail sentence to attend a funeral on the same day as the Queen Mother's funeral.

Raymond Boyle, 29, whose grandfather died at the beginning of the week, applied through his barrister to have his sentence deferred until after the funeral on Tuesday.

Tony Hawks, defending Boyle, told the court: "I'm applying on behalf of Mr Boyle for an act of mercy.

"Mr Boyle has suffered a family tragedy early this week when his grandfather passed away.

"This man would be very grateful if his sentence could be put back to allow him attendance at the family funeral next week.

"This man realises he faces a possible jail sentence, but wishes to attend the funeral and support the family."

Judge David Wood agreed to let Boyle and Steven Simpson, 19, who is jointly charged with affray, to return at a later date for sentence.

Judge Wood said: "I would normally oppose deferring sentence, but in the circumstances I grant the application."

Boyle, of Brownlow Road, South Shields, and Simpson, of Banford Road, South Shields, will return to Newcastle Crown Court on April 12 to be sentenced.