Ashley Blake fears TV career is over after guilty verdict in wounding trial

Aug 4 2009 By Christina Savvas

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Leaving court with Ms Hayes, Blake said: “There are no words to describe how I am feeling. I am absolutely gutted. All because I did a favour for someone to host their birthday party.

“It’s all over isn’t it? My job, everything.”

Mr Jones, who received more than 10 stitches for the cut from his lip to his chin, was not in court to hear the verdict but his father Steven Jones said: “I am pleased that Ashley Blake got what he deserves. He lied to police and lied on several occasions. The judge has done his job and we hope the sentence reflects the crime because my son is walking around with a scar for the rest of his life.

“He would not come to court today. For obvious reasons - he is upset.”

Blake worked as the BBC’s regional art and entertainment correspondent, he also presented consumer programme Watchdog before moving to Birmingham.

Caroline Boots, head of communications at BBC Birmingham, said: “He has been found guilty of serious offences and we will take time to carefully consider the findings of today’s court proceedings before taking action.”

After the verdict was delivered, the court also heard a list of Blake’s previous convictions, including two counts of theft in 1986 and three more in 1987.

In 1988, Blake was convicted of handling stolen goods and altering documents following a road traffic accident and, in 1990, of driving whilst disqualified.

Blake was again convicted of theft in 1993.

Sproule had earlier pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He and Blake are due to return to Birmingham Crown Court on September 2 for sentencing.