Psychologist loses case for damages

A psychology lecturer who claimed a campaign of victimisation cost him his job and his mental stability has lost his fight for damages.

Michael Laidler, former head of psychology at New College, Durham, claimed his mental health was damaged by a catalogue of incidents, including returning to work in September 1995 to find his office demolished. He alleged he was undermined by colleagues, passed over for promotion and victimised for refusing to sign a new contract.

Mr Laidler sued the college for personal injury, which he said resulted from its negligence and breach of contract.

Judge Christopher Walton at the High Court sitting at Newcastle upon Tyne said he could not accept Mr Laidler's version of events. He dismissed the claim and ordered Mr Laidler to pay defence costs.