£25K for food critic's poison pen

The Irish News must pay £25,000 plus court costs to a west Belfast Italian restaurant owner after a jury found a food critic's review to be defamatory. Journalist Caroline Workman's August 2000 review criticised the quality of food and drink at Goodfellas, the staff and the smoky atmosphere. The newspaper pleaded justification and fair comment. It will appeal the jury's unanimous defamation verdict. – The Guardian 10 February.

Luke Johnson buys into Fishworks

Luke Johnson, the Channel 4 chairman, and Gary Ashworth, the recruitment entrepreneur, are to buy a combined stake of 33% in FishWorks, the restaurant operator, as part of a £2.5m rescue share placing. – The Times, 10 February

Yorkshire holiday park sold to Bourne Leisure

Yorkshire holiday park Far Grange has been bought by Butlins owner Bourne Leisure in a multi-million pound deal. The park set in 200 acres at Skipsea, in between Hornsea and Bridlington, has 850 holiday homes and was founded in 1970 by owner Mike McCann. – Yorkshire Post, 10 February.

Compiled by Bob Gledhill

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