Northern Ireland’s First Minister called the verdict in the trial of Soldier F “deeply disappointing” but for the DUP leader it was “common sense” and the Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said she was “pleased”.

The judge said prosecutors had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Soldier F had meant to murder two unarmed Catholic civil rights marchers. He was also cleared of five charges of attempted murder.

But Mr Justice Lynch said those involved in the shooting should “hang their heads in shame”.

Camera: James McLaughlin

Producer: Lucia Walker

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