Man appears in court charged with alleged Nottingham terror plot

The 26 year old was arrested by counter terror police earlier this year

Author: Emily Pennink and Helen William, PA Published 31st Mar 2023
Last updated 31st Mar 2023

A former British soldier has appeared at the Old Bailey accused of an extreme far-right terrorist plot to burn down a book shop.

26-year-old William Howitt from West Bridgford in Nottingham, is charged with preparation of terrorist acts.

It is alleged that on or before March 14th 2023, he "wrote a plan for conducting an arson attack and equipped himself with a glass hammer and tarpaulin with a view to carrying out an arson attack".

The alleged target is said to be a left-wing bookshop in Nottingham.

The alleged plot was uncovered after defendant was stopped by counter-terrorism police on January 5th 2023.

On Friday, Howitt, who has worked in construction since leaving the Army, appeared by video link from custody at the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing.

Mr Justice Jeremy Baker transferred the case to Birmingham Crown Court.

He said a plea hearing would take place on July 14th 2023 with a provisional trial from October 30th 2023.

The defendant was remanded into custody.