Explosion rap man in court

Bomb disposal team was called to block of flats after police alert

A man has appeared in court charged with sparking an explosion just minutes away from a university.

Alan Hamilton, 36, is accused of causing a blast behind a block of flats in Paisley’s west end.

He also faces allegations he had a haul of combustible chemicals at his home nearby.

Hamilton denied the charges when he was hauled into the dock at Paisley Sheriff Court.

Sheriff Colin Pettigrew said: “Your pleas of not guilty are noted, as is the state of preparation.

“I’m satisfied the case is in a state of preparation where it can proceed to trial.”

Prosecutors claim Hamilton caused an explosion that was “likely to endanger life or cause serious damage

to property”.

They allege he ignited a “cylinder device” containing “explosive material” in Clavering Street East.

He was arrested after the blowout near the University of the West of Scotland on June 9 last year.

Police were called to the scene after neighbours reported hearing a bang around 9pm.

A bomb disposal team carried out a controlled explosion in the early hours of the next day.

Prosecutors claim Hamilton was caught with a stash of substances used to make bombs and fireworks.

Experts allege potassium nitrate, sulphur, aluminium and a starch-based material were recovered.

According to court papers, this gave rise to a reasonable suspicion that he was not making “lawful fireworks.”

Hamilton made his first public court appearance in connection with the case on Thursday.

Defence lawyer Bob Mitchell claims his client has learning difficulties and was not involved in the drama.

Procurator Fiscal Depute Pamela Brady confirmed proceedings are ready to go ahead.

She said: “The Crown are ready to proceed to trial.

“It is a relatively straightforward matter and we are confident the matter could be completed in perhaps two to three days.”

Hamilton, of Well Street, has been ordered to return for trial in April.