Army chef charged after counter-terrorism searches

Mr Broadhurst was charged on 11 September

A British army chef has appeared in court charged with possession of a muzzle-loading gun and possession of explosives.

Mark Broadhurst was arrested by counter-terrorism detectives in September 2024 at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire. Police searched his room at the garrison, his home in Grassmoor, Chesterfield, and a property in Bolsover.

The 27-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrate's Court by video link from his lawyer's office in Leeds on Monday after being charged on 11 September this year.

Mr Broadhurst confirmed his name, his date of birth and his address during the appearance.

Mr Broadhurst appeared in court via video link

The charges he faces are possessing a craft-produced muzzle-loading firearm without holding a firearms certificate, and possession of explosives including black powder, sulphur powder and a homemade cannon.

He was given conditional bail, with conditions including sleeping every night in Catterick Garrison or his home in Chesterfield and notifying the police in advance of any deployment on exercise.

He was told his next court appearance will be on 3 October at the Old Bailey.

An Army spokesperson said: "We can confirm that Private Broadhurst appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court today following an investigation by West Yorkshire Police.

"It would be inappropriate to comment while legal proceedings are ongoing."