John Francis Gilling charged with racially aggravated harassment

CHARGED: John Francis Gilling

By Simon Bristow and Angus Young

A man has appeared in court charged with racially aggravated harassment.

John Francis Gilling, 59, is also charged with using threatening words or behaviour against the same complainant.

Mr Gilling, of York Road, Orchard Park, Hull, denies both offences and is due to stand trial next year.

Both offences are alleged to have taken place in Hull on October 28, 2023.

The first charge states that Mr Gilling “with intent to cause [named person] harassment, alarm or distress used threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour, thereby causing that or another person harassment, alarm or distress and the offence was racially aggravated”.

This offence is contrary to Section 31(1)(b) and (4) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

The second charge states Mr Gilling “with intent to cause [named person] harassment, alarm or distress, used threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour, thereby causing that person or another harassment, alarm or distress”.

This is contrary to Section 4A(1) and (5) of the Public Order Act 1986.

Mr Gilling pleaded not guilty to both offences when he appeared at Hull Magistrates’ Court on May 8 this year. He consented to summary trial before magistrates.

Further hearings in the case were held at the same court on July 11, July 25 and August 23.

Mr Gilling was granted unconditional bail and his trial is due to take place at Beverley Magistrates’ Court on April 29 next year.