Two men in court over mosque arson attack

Two worshippers escaped after smelling smoke at the mosque on 4 October

Two men charged with setting fire to a mosque in Peacehaven will stand trial at the Old Bailey on 14 November.

Ricky Ryder, 38, and Jack Slowey, 34, are accused of pouring flammable liquid on Peacehaven Mosque and setting it alight while two worshippers were inside.

Mr Ryder and Mr Slowey appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Prosecutor David Burns told the court that a nearby car was destroyed, while the front of the mosque and a second vehicle were damaged. The two people inside the mosque smelled smoke and were able to get out unharmed, Mr Burns added.

Mr Slowey did not submit an application for bail. Mr Ryder's application for bail was denied due to the nature and seriousness of the offence.

Both have been remanded in custody until their next appearance on 14 November.