Bridge Climbers’ Daring Dartford Disruption Ends in Court
Two men accused of causing chaos by scaling the Dartford Crossing bridge have appeared in court today. Morgan Trowland, 39, and Marcus Decker, 33, pleaded not guilty to public nuisance after blocking the vital Queen Elizabeth II Bridge for nearly two days.
Protest Sparks Major Traffic Mayhem
The pair allegedly climbed the bridge’s cables early Monday morning, using climbing gear to suspend themselves high above the road. Their stunt brought traffic between Kent and Essex to a grinding halt, as motorists were forced to seek alternative routes.
Prosecutor Ruth Becker revealed the climbers went so high that police negotiators lost all contact with them. They unfurled a Just Stop Oil banner and stayed put for almost 36 hours, finally ending their protest late Tuesday afternoon.
Danger and Disruption Spark Court Drama
The prolonged protest reportedly put both the activists and emergency responders at risk. Trowland, a civil engineer from Islington, and Decker, a musician with no fixed address, appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court. Both confirmed their identities and denied the charge of public nuisance.
As District Judge Christopher Williams refused bail, the courtroom gallery erupted with shouts of “shame on you” towards the defendants.
Jury Trial Set for November
The two men have been remanded in custody and will face a jury trial. Next court hearing is scheduled for November 17 at Basildon Crown Court, where they will enter pleas and prepare for trial.
