Model tells Taylor trial of 'dirty stones' gift

Giving evidence to the trial in The Hague, Netherlands, Campbell said she met Taylor for the first time during a meal in September 1997.

She told the court that two men knocked on her door in the middle of night as she stayed at the home of former South African president Nelson Mandela and presented her with a pouch containing gems.

"They were very small, dirty looking stones," she said.

The model told the court she discussed the incident with fellow guests the next morning and was told: "That's obviously Charles Taylor."

Campbell is said to have received a "blood diamond" from Taylor, who faces charges including criminal responsibility for murder, rape, sexual slavery and the use of child soldiers.

The 40-year-old model, from Streatham, south London, refused to take part in the trial at the Special Court for Sierra Leone in The Hague until she was issued with a subpoena.

She arrived at the courthouse in The Hague surrounded by police officers. She did not speak to reporters outside.