Manslaughter verdict reportedly handed down following fatal attack on Scots journalist in New Zealand

UPDATE (Dec 18): Cottrell’s family are understood to be unhappy with the verdict: as reported here, here and here.

A 20 year-old man has been reportedly found guilty of the manslaughter of Scots journalist, Phillip Cottrell.

The former BBC Scotland journalist was attacked last December while walking home from his work in New Zealand.

Says the BBC: “Nicho Waipuka had admitted punching Mr Cottrell, causing him to fall and hit his head, during an attack in Wellington in December 2011.

“Mr Cottrell, who was 43, had been walking home from the offices of Radio New Zealand.”

It is understood Cottrell moved to New Zealand six years ago.