CARLISLE man Derek Heggie has formally denied allegations that he published YouTube videos which were “racist and inflammatory.”

Widely known for his involvement in the world of competitive bareknuckle fighting, Heggie appeared before a crown court judge in the city via a video link. Judge Michal Fanning confirmed that the trial will get underway on December 2.

It is expected to last three days.

Heggie, 40, has been charged with two offences which was brought under the 1988 Malicious Communications Act. He entered his not guilty pleas during a brief hearing at the city's crown court before Judge Fanning.

At an earlier hearing before magistrates, the court heard that the allegations are based on two YouTube videos created by the defendant which the prosecution say contained “grossly offensive” comments.

Some of the comments he is accused of making in the videos, posted between August 3 and August 7, were included in the wording of the charge as revealed in court papers. They relate to Muslims and “grooming gangs.” 

According to the charges, the video communications were made "for the purpose of causing distress or anxiety to the recipient or any other person to whom you intended that it or its contents or nature should be communicated."

Heggie, of Welsh Road, Harraby, was remanded in custody.