Student denies public order charge after royal egg attack
A STUDENT accused of throwing eggs at the King has claimed in court that his actions were a “necessary protest against the establishment”.
Patrick Thelwell, 23, a student at the University of York, faces up to six months in jail after four eggs were hurled at Charles and Camilla as they prepared to unveil a statue of the late Queen at York Minster last November.
Mr Thelwell, who wore a multicoloured crop top and combat trousers at York magistrates’ court, spoke only to confirm his name and address.
Nicola Hall, defending, said Mr Thelwell was pleading not guilty to a public order offence and would attempt to prove his behaviour was “part of a legitimate protest”. She said: “The other crucial issue at the trial would be whether his actions “looked likely to cause the fear of unlawful violence”.
The case was adjourned until April 14 and Mr Thelwell was released on unconditional bail. Waving to journalists as he left the court, he said: “I am off now. Love and peace.”
During the incident, police made an arrest as the King and Queen were ushered away by security staff.