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  1. Media Law
May 3, 2018

Celebrities and footballers receive damages payouts as Mirror group apologises for hacking their phones

By PA Media Lawyer

Model Danielle Lloyd, actress Jennifer Ellison and former footballers Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole have received undisclosed damages and apologies from Mirror Group Newspapers over phone-hacking.

None of the celebrities were at the High Court hearing before Mr Justice Mann to see the settlements of their claims for misuse of private information.

Solicitor Mark Elder told the judge that Lloyd, 34, was “distressed and appalled” to learn that she had been targeted.

In addition to the emotional impact, Ellison, also 34, believed the activity had adversely affected her career.

MGN’s actions had a “massive emotional impact” on Yorke, 46, affected his life in many ways and significantly damaged his reputation.

They also had an adverse impact on 46-year-old Cole’s life in many ways, including leading him to distrust people close to him.

MGN apologised for any damage or distress suffered as a result of the unlawful interception of voicemail messages more than a decade ago.

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Elder, a partner at law firm Shoosmiths, said later: “We’re pleased to have resolved these claims against MGN on behalf of our clients.

“Our clients may be in the public eye but they have a right to a private life, which should be respected.

“A settlement has been reached with MGN and our clients are happy with the outcome.”

Picture: PA Wire

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