Shannon Matthews trial Day 4: Donovan 'creepy loner'

Nov 14 2008 By Andrew Jackson

THE man accused of kidnapping schoolgirl Shannon Matthews was described in court today as "a bit creepy" by his own niece.

Caroline Meehan was giving evidence in the trial of Michael Donovan, 40, and Karen Matthews, 33, at Leeds Crown Court.

Both are charged with kidnapping and falsely imprisoning Shannon as well as perverting the course of justice.

The charges relate to the 24-day disappearance of Shannon in February and March this year when the little girl was nine.

Ms Meehan was asked by Mrs Frances Oldham, QC, for Matthews, if she agreed with the description that her uncle was "a loner, a strange character, a bit creepy and a fantasist?"