The Sun's chief reporter John Kay (pictured, Reuters), from north London, was hailed a "true legend" as Fleet Street friends and colleagues flocked to his defence over allegations of paying corrupt officials for stories.

The Sun royal photographer Arthur Edwards told his Old Bailey trial that the two-time British Press Awards Reporter of the Year was on a "pedestal" in the industry.

He said: "I'm so proud to give evidence for John Kay. I'm just one of dozens at The Sun who would do the same. They would queue at the door. He's done more for me than I have done for him which is why I'm here."