Sussex man denies seven charges of encouraging terrorism

A man has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of encouraging terrorism on social media.

Thomas Smith, 33, of Eastbourne, Sussex, appeared before Bristol Crown Court via video link on Friday.

He denied seven charges against him, relating to posts on X (formerly Twitter) in November and December last year.

Judge Martin Picton released Smith on bail and said a trial would take place at Bristol Crown Court on July 13.

Diana Wilson appeared for the prosecution during the hearing while Alex Di Francesco represented Smith.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East previously said Smith had been charged in connection with an investigation into extreme right-wing terrorism in Sussex.

The trial, at Bristol Crown Court, is estimated to last for five days.