Tommy Robinson on trial over journalist harassment

British far-right political activist Tommy Robinson went on trial in London on Monday accused of harassment causing fear of violence to two journalists, allegations he denies.

Robinson, 43, is being tried at Southwark Crown Court under his real name, Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. He denies two counts of harassment causing fear of violence to journalists Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber through his X account between August 5 and 7, 2024.

Prosecutor Ben Holt told the jury that Robinson used "bullyboy, intimidatory tactics" after photographs were taken of him on holiday in Cyprus in July 2024. Dirnhuber works for the Daily Mail and MailOnline. Young had been sent to Cyprus with a photographer to cover the story.

Holt said Dirnhuber received direct messages from Robinson including "You have endangered my children" and "I'll be knocking at your door". The prosecutor said Young later became aware that his UK home address had been posted on X by an account not linked to Robinson, but alleged Robinson would have known his followers could target people he discussed online.

The prosecution also alleged Robinson made a "menacing" call to Young, swore and shouted at him, and told him he would be coming to his home and that he would "have to move house".

The jury was told to put aside any opinions about Robinson, who previously founded the far-right, Islamophobic English Defence League. Robinson posted on X before the hearing thanking Tesla owner Elon Musk for funding his legal fees.

The trial is expected to last five days.