Campaigners in court over airport protest
07.10.06
A total of 25 people appeared in court yesterday over the recent demonstration at East Midlands Airport. The group, from campaigners Plane Stupid, were protesting against the environmental impact of cheap flights from the airport.
A runway at the airport was invaded almost two weeks ago, causing disruption to flights and a major security alert. At Loughborough Magistrates' Court yesterday the campaigners faced charges including aggravated trespass, public nuisance, and entering a restricted part of the airfield.
The youngest defendant was 17-years-old and the eldest was a clergyman in his fifties, who led a mock memorial service on the runway. The defendants entered no pleas and were bailed to reappear before Loughborough magistrates on 15 December for committal to crown court.
A 25th person, a cameraman who had allegedly got on to the runway, also appeared to deny 3 charges. A total of 20 were charged with aggravated trespass, causing a public nuisance and entering a restricted zone of an aerodrome without permission. 5 were additionally charged with causing criminal damage.
The defendants were bailed on condition they do not go within 500 metres of a UK airport, unless they plan to fly from one or are travelling in a train.
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