Finley Harding from Newbury denies racist offence

A MAN is to go on trial charged with a racially aggravated public order offence.

Finley Harding appeared in the dock at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, July 30.

The 20-year-old, who lives in Racecourse Road, Newbury, is accused of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress, in Newbury on January 1.

The prosecution allege the offence was racially aggravated and this was reflected in the charge.

Mr Harding, who was legally represented by Albin and Co., spoke only to confirm his details and to plead not guilty to the charge.

He was told the case could proceed no further that day and that it would be adjourned for a trial to be arranged.

Mr Harding was meanwhile released on unconditional bail.