Bomb scare suspect is held on remand

A MAN has appeared in court accused of leaving a crude home-made bomb in a shopping centre.

David Rutherford, 24, of Barry Avenue, Preston, was remanded into custody for 14 days after a brief appearance at Preston Magistrates’ Court.

Mr Rutherford was arrested on Wednesday after an incendiary device was found in toilets at the Fishergate Shopping Centre in Preston on December 17.

The city centre shopping complex was evacuated by police. The device had ignited but did not explode or cause damage or injury.

Mr Rutherford is charged with unlawfully and maliciously making an explosive substance, an improvised incendiary device with intent to endanger life or cause serious damage to property or enable another to do so.

Martine Connah, prosecuting, said the case was “unusual” and requested Mr Rutherford be held in remand for two weeks.

There will be a further hearing by videolink on January 8, before Mr Rutherford is brought back to court on January 14.

A 27-year-old man from Preston who was also arrested in connection with the investigation was released on police bail until January 28. There is not thought to be any link between the two men.