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Man jailed for murder after gig

Graphic designer Ashley Charles was jailed for a minimum 14 years at the Old Bailey, after being convicted of murdering telephone executive Phillip Sherriff after a Jessie J gig in London.

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Charles acted 'in a split second of madness'

This is a tragic case. Mr Sherriff may have pushed you in a crowded bar and made inoffensive remarks to a girl talking to you.

You clearly became annoyed at what you perceived was the conduct of Mr Sherriff and lost your temper when he may have pushed against you at the bar.

– Judge Worsley told Ashley Charles

Charles took a beer bottle from Mr Sherriff's hand and swung it behind him, where it broke, and then plunged it into Mr Sherriff's neck.

It was a lethal weapon. He was a decent man.

– Judge Worsley

The judge said Charles had done something "which was truly out of character".

You did not deliberately smash the bottle you used. I am satisfied you did not intend to kill Mr Sherriff and you were immediately remorseful.

– Judge Worsley told Ashley Charles

Andrew Hall QC, for Charles, said he acted "in a split second of madness".

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