THE JURY at Swansea Crown Court has found two men guilty of the murder of Andrew Main after five hours and 11 minutes of deliberation.

Joseph Dix, 26, from Somerset, and Macauley Ruddock, 28, from Bath, were convicted of the fatal attack, which unfolded on Princess Way in Swansea city centre on Wednesday (Jul 17) 2024. Andrew Main, originally from Falkirk, Scotland, was rushed to hospital but never regained consciousness, tragically passing away four weeks later.

Initially charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, Dix and Ruddock faced upgraded charges of murder following Mr Main’s death. Both men denied the allegations, claiming they acted in self-defence after Mr Main allegedly threw punches at them. While admitting to knocking him to the ground, they denied continuing the assault once he was down.

A pursuit turned deadly

The prosecution argued that Dix and Ruddock were the aggressors, pursuing Mr Main from a city centre hotel and launching a violent attack in the street.

Detective Inspector Claire Lamerton, who led the investigation, explained: “Both men were visiting Swansea for work, as was Andrew Main. All three were staying at the same city centre hotel and met for the first time at a nearby bar. Later that night, an argument broke out at the hotel between Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock and Andrew Main and his friend Michael Bell. This argument moved onto the street, before Dix and Ruddock chased after Andrew Main, ultimately striking him unconscious before carrying out a sustained attack.”

She continued: “While the parties had all consumed alcohol that night, that does not excuse the level of violence displayed by Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock. They clearly set out to cause serious injury to their victim and now face significant prison sentences for their actions.

“Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and friends, who have been devastated by what has happened and continue to grieve his loss. This case highlights how intoxicants can negatively affect behaviour and decision-making. Had Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock chosen to walk away that night, a life would have been saved, and they would not be convicted killers.”

Minimum sentence awaited

Addressing the defendants, His Honour Judge Paul Thomas KC emphasised that life imprisonment is the only possible sentence for murder. He noted that the court would determine the minimum term Dix and Ruddock must serve before being eligible for parole. Sentencing is set to take place on Friday (Jan 24).

A family’s grief

In a police statement after Mr Main’s death, his sister Nikki Main paid tribute to her brother.

“Andrew, my baby brother, was sadly taken from us far too soon. He was adored by family and friends and beloved by more. We are absolutely devastated by his sudden passing and ask anyone with information to please, please come forward. He will forever live in our hearts and memories,” she said.

She added: “He was a witty man with a huge heart, loyal to the core. He was a fabulous brother, fun uncle, and supportive daddy to his two children. There will never be anyone like Andrew. The hole that has been left in our hearts will never be filled. Everyone in our community has been grief-stricken, but we have rallied together as one at this sad time. As a family, we are destroyed by what has happened to Andrew. We can’t thank everyone enough for the love and support they have shown.”

Sentencing updates will follow on Friday (Jan 24).

THE PRODUCERS of the hit BBC One series Race Across the World are calling on adventurous individuals from Wales to apply for the upcoming series of the BAFTA-winning show. Casting is now open, with a deadline of April 6, 2025.

The show challenges participants to embark on a journey across some of the most remote and beautiful corners of the globe, armed with a limited budget and without access to modern technology or conveniences. Contestants will travel through stunning landscapes, dynamic cities, and ancient wonders while immersing themselves in local cultures and traditions.

A journey of self-discovery

The journey is not just about the physical challenge. Contestants often uncover personal growth and strengthened relationships as they navigate thousands of miles together. Whether it’s a chance to bond with a family member, reconnect with a friend, or explore a region that holds personal significance, the show offers a transformative experience.

How to apply

Applicants must complete the online application form at Race Across the World Casting. Terms and conditions apply, and all information will be processed in accordance with Studio Lambert’s Data Protection Policy.

For assistance or questions about the application process, potential contestants can email: [email protected].

Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and represent Wales on this extraordinary journey.

Closing date: April 6, 2025.

A PROTESTOR from west Wales has been ordered to pay more than £7,500 after breaching a designated safe zone outside a reproductive health clinic in Ealing. 

Stephen Green, 73, from Carmarthen was ordered to pay £7,536.50 in prosecution costs following a judgement taken at Isleworth Crown Court on Wednesday 15 January, which dismissed his appeal against a conviction for the offence of failing to comply with a public space protection order.  

He was first issued with a £100 fixed penalty notice (FPN) in March 2023, after failing to comply with a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). 

The PSPO, which was introduced in 2018 by Ealing Council, creates a safe zone around the MSI Reproductive Choices clinic in Mattock Lane to shield visitors from pro-life/pro-choice protests. 

The PSPO also sets out a designated area for protesters, respecting their right to freedom of speech, which Green ignored as part of his protest on Monday 6 February 2023. 

At the time of the incident, Green was seen carrying a sign bearing the religious verse: “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.” 

After failing to pay the fixed penalty notice, the case was taken to Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court, where Green was handed a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £2,426 in costs. 

He appealed the decision on 30 October 2024 at Isleworth Crown Court but his case was ultimately dismissed by the judge who ordered Green to pay the additional prosecution costs. 

Councillor Jasbir Anand, the council’s cabinet member for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, said: “We welcome the court’s decision to dismiss Mr Green’s appeal. 

“The Mattock Lane Safe Zone exists to protect women from facing unreasonable interference and intimidation at the point they are accessing services for intensely personal reasons. Whilst we of course respect people’s right to protest, we also respect people’s right to privacy, and the kind of behaviour Mr Green engaged in was totally unacceptable. 

“I hope this result sends a clear message; that any breaches will be taken seriously.” 

Louise McCudden, advocacy lead at MSI Reproductive Choices UK, said: “We welcome the news that Stephen Green’s conviction has been upheld.

“The local safe zone is very important for our clients and our frontline healthcare workers. The zone is there to make sure anyone who needs it can access confidential medical care without being harassed and intimidated by strangers.   

“Every day we are grateful that Ealing Council introduced this protection. At a time when we’re seeing global attempts to roll back reproductive rights, most notably in the United States, it could not be more important to stand up for women and girls.”