Leeds man among 24 charged over Grand National protest

Merseyside Police have confirmed that 24 people have been charged in connection with the protest at the Grand National 2023, including a 28 year old man from Leeds.

The investigation was launched after large-scale protest at last year's event, which saw activists scale the fences at Aintree and enter the racehouse.

Joshua Parkinson, 28, Musgrave View, Leeds is accused intentional/reckless public nuisance after allegedly climbing a fence.

Previously, a number of people have been charged and appeared in court for blocking access for vehicles near junction 2 of the M57.

A total of five people have been charged with intentional/reckless public nuisance after allegedly entering the racecourse. They are:

• Edward Allnutt, 33, of Mortimer Street in London

• Michelle Farnham, 26, of The Cleve, in Harpenden

• Robert Gordon, 28, of Walker Drive, in York

• Daniel Kidby, 32, of St Michael’s Place, in Stroud

• Alistair Stewart, 28, of Boleyn Road, in London

A further 19 people are charged with allegedly climbing over fences and attempting to get onto the racecourse. These are:

• Joshua Brooks, 37, of Oakhurst Gardens, in Walthamstow

• Alexandra Dunnet, 25, of Harford Mews, in London

• Ben Stevenson, 24, of Cromwell Close, in Acton

• Zoe Copley, 51, of Cysgod Y Castell, Llandudno

• Jamie Lesse, 50, of Booth Street, Chesterton

• Richard Raineri, 26, of Gosberton Road, in London

• James Brand, 22, of no fixed abode

• Connor Peters, 25, of Main Street, in North Frodingham

• Luke Wood, 51, of Main Road, in Stonely

• Marcus Emmerson, 28, of no fixed abode

• Calum Marshall, 26, of Hope Park Terrace, Newington, Edinburgh

• Lesley Hill, 57, of Tithebarn Cottages, in Llanasa

• Zara Verryt, 35, of Sheldon Road, in Sheffield

• Joshua Parkinson, 28, Musgrave View, in Leeds

• Imogen Robertson, 23, of Grange Gardens, in Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire

• Sarah McCaffrey, 21, of Hunterlees Gardens, Glassford, in Strathaven

• Lewis Elliott, 31, of no fixed abode

• Laura Cox, 29, of Millfield Avenue, in York

• Megan Thornbury, 45, of Millstone Way, in Gloucester

They have all been bailed and due to appear at South Sefton Magistrates’ Court on either Wednesday 10 October or Wednesday 6 November.

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