A JUDGE has called on two families to end the “disgraceful” behaviour which led to a stabbing at a traveller funeral.

Last year, a service for 76-year-old Winnie Joyce at Oxford’s Greyfriars Church descended into violence because of a long-running feud.

John Mongan, of Middle Garden, Wheatley, was accused of twice stabbing 32-year-old Jason McDonagh, motivated by “bad blood” between their families.

The incident allegedly happened at 10.30am on November 13 and the fighting then spread through a crowd of about 300 people, some of who were armed with knives and broom handles.

But yesterday Mr Mongan, 41, was cleared of all charges after a three-day trial at Oxford Crown Court, in which his barrister said it was really the McDonagh family who caused the violence.

After receiving the verdict Judge Gordon Risius, the Honorary Recorder of Oxford, said: “We are all familiar with family disagreements, but they don’t usually go on for years or involve generations who were young children when they started.

“Nor are they likely to involve the behaviour we have heard about in this case.

“Nor do they break out during funerals, where the aim should always be quiet respect for the dead.

“Whoever was responsible for the various kinds of behaviour we have heard about during this trial, I simply ask those people to reflect on whether members of a civilised society should continue behaving in that way, whoever first started it. And whether it sets a suitable example for future generations to follow.

“People can think what they like about other families, but they should never try to resolve disputes by committing criminal offences.”

During the trial the court had heard reports of the defendant’s car being rammed, which could be related to the dispute.

Samantha Leigh, prosecuting, said earlier in the week that both sides admitted a dispute between the families existed.

She said: “There is a background between the two families, McDonagh and Mongan, that has been going on for a very long period of time.

“Some say it is about a wedding being called off, others say it is about the loss of a house because money was borrowed and not repaid.”

Mr Mongan was found not guilty of wounding with intent, as well as the alternative charge of unlawful wounding, affray and having an offensive weapon in a public place.