An attempt to have the substantial compensation claim by a drunken man who was crippled for life when he fell off a bar stool rejected by the High Court in Belfast was refused by the judge yesterday.
Mr Justice Campbell held there was sufficient evidence to allow the case to proceed.
Mr William Joy (37), a wheelchair-bound bachelor from Princess Avenue, Cooks town, Co Tyrone, is claiming damages against Mr Michael Newell, owner of the local Copper Room bar where he fell and broke his neck in 1989.
The judge said Mr Joy had already drunk 14 vodkas and five pints of beer before he entered the Copper Room and there was sufficient evidence that he was incapable of looking after himself.
The hearing was adjourned until November 10th when evidence will be given on behalf of Mr Newell, who is denying liability.