AN investigation has been launched following claims a judge fell asleep in court while an alleged child rape victim gave evidence, causing the trial to be halted.

The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office is looking into the allegation against Recorder Philip Cattan, who was presiding over the trial of John Quigley at Manchester Crown Court. The judge stopped the trial following the allegation and it will now be re-listed. Quigley, 49, from Manchester, denies a number of sex offences, including the rape of a child under 13.