Man charged over murder and terror offences remanded in custody

A man appeared in court today charged with soliciting murder and terror offences, police said.

Trevor Hannington, from Hirwaun, South Wales, appeared at City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court accused of possessing records containing information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, contrary to Section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2000, and disseminating a terrorist publication, contrary to Section 2 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

The 58-year-old is also accused of using threatening, abusive or insulting words likely to stir up racial hatred. Hannington was remanded in custody until January 15 2010 when he will appear at the Old Bailey, a statement from the North East Counter Terrorism Unit said.

Michael Heaton, 42, from Leigh, Greater Manchester, also appeared at the magistrates’ court charged with soliciting murder and using threatening, abusive or insulting words likely to stir up racial hatred. He was bailed until January 15 when he will also appear at the Old Bailey, police said.

In an earlier statement, North East Counter Terrorism Unit and South Wales Police said the investigation was not linked to international terrorism. He added: “We recognise that local people may have concerns as a result of this enquiry and our officers are in regular contact with the local community to keep them as informed as possible about the investigation. We would like to thank local residents for their patience, support and understanding.”

Wales Online