South Shields man back in court on explosives charge

David Preece, 51, of Hathersage Gardens, South Shields, has been charged with possessing an explosive substance and possessing a regulated substance without licence, namely Nitric acid.

Appearing at South Tyneside Magistrates Court on Monday, January 13, via a video link from HMP Durham, the court heard how Preece also faces a third charge of the purchase of a weapon for the discharge of a device.

It comes after police officers found suspicious items inside a house in South Shields.

The discovery led to the British Army Explosive Ordnance team and firefighters being called in to support the force as it carried out searches in Hathersage Gardens on the Harton Moor Estate which began on January 7.

The items were later safely removed and officers took precautionary measures to ensure the safety of those living nearby.

Preece was remanded in custody and appeared at Magistrates Court sitting at Newcastle Crown Court on Saturday, January 11, wearing a dark grey hoodie, where he confirmed his date of birth and address.

At the previous hearing, Geoffrey Forrester, representing Preece, said that the defendant was a man of good character.

Preece is next due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday, January 15.