A GWENT man was cleared of requiring another to perform forced or compulsory labour as the charge against him was dropped.

Thomas Doran, 37, of Shirenewton, pleaded not guilty to the charge at Cardiff Crown Court this morning.

Doran spoke only to confirm his name and deny the charge.

John Hipkin, prosecuting, offered no evidence against Doran so judge Neil Bidder QC dismissed the case against him.