Silvio Berlusconi had denied ever having sexual relations with underage teenage Moroccan nightclub dancer Karima El-Mahroug, aka Ruby the heart-stealer, saying that he has never used prostitutes.

The former Prime Minister of Italy arrived in court today over charges of under-age prostitution and bribery, and during his trial the media mogul claimed, "I never paid for sex in my life".

Milan residents disagreed with Berlusconi's claims, as they shared their views of the former Prime Minister.

"He's [Berlusconi's] always done exactly what he has wanted to do, he brought this country to its knees, as we are now, handing money out here and there, don't get me started on it please."

"He is a coward. He should have already answered to this."

The spontaneous declaration was a rare appearance by the 76-year-old, whose lawyers have indicated will not testify in the Milan court. The trial continues.

Written and presented by Alfred Joyner