Climate protester cleared of knife charge

A CLIMATE camp protester from Nottingham who refused to accept a caution when a lock knife was found in his rucksack has been cleared by a jury of possessing a bladed article.

Reginald Twigger claimed he used the knife in his work as a handyman and needed it to repair his tent and bike.

The 41-year-old, also known as Henry, was awarded the costs of his privately-funded defence, and travel expenses from his home.

Maidstone Crown Court heard Mr Twigger had gone to the camp at Dux Road, Hoo, Kent, last year on a bicycle pulling a trailer. Arriving in the rain just after midnight on August 4, he was stopped by police on the approach road and searched.

Anthony Prosser, prosecuting, said it was an offence to have a blade or sharp point in a public place. There was a defence, he said, if a person carried a knife for a good reason. When asked why he had the knife, Mr Twigger said: "I use it for my trade."

After being cautioned by police, he replied: "You had better well charge me then."

He was arrested and taken to a police station. He explained during an interview that he used the knife for stripping wires and cutting cords and carpet, and to repair his tent and bike.

Mr Twigger, of Holme Road, West Bridgford, said in evidence a police officer told him: "I am afraid we have got to offer you a caution."

When he refused, the officer went away for 10 minutes, leaving him standing in the rain.

Mr Twigger declined to have his case heard at magistrates' court.

He was previously convicted of criminal damage after painting anti-war slogans on Nottingham's armed forces recruitment office.

Police found the former Territorial Army member nearby with a tin of red paint in one hand and a paintbrush in the other.