EDL leader facing jail after assault in Blackburn

Stephen Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, launched a verbal attack on a fellow member of the far-right group before headbutting his victim, Preston Magistrates' Court heard.

Lennon, 28, founder of the EDL, "goaded" a crowd of followers during a rally by 2,000 supporters in Blackburn town centre on April 2.

The 28-year-old, from Luton, Bedfordshire, launched a tirade against a man, who was accused of putting messages on the internet about police informers and "grasses", before trouble broke out in the crowd among EDL members, the court heard.

Alan McKee, 33, from Gateshead, was pulled from the crowd by stewards for his own safety and taken away by police officers.

But the court heard he later confronted Lennon about his speech as the rally continued with other speakers.

Lennon, who was surrounded by his own security guards and EDL stewards, then lunged or stepped forward and headbutted Mr McKee.

Lennon denied assault and claimed during his speech he had harangued another man, also called Alan, an Alan Smith, from Newcastle, who was a member of an EDL splinter group, the North East Infidels, intent on causing trouble.

The court heard from two police officers, Pc Paul Green and Pc Andrew Sumner, who told the court they were on hand when the incident happened.

Both maintained they clearly saw Lennon headbutt Mr McKee.

After a day-long trial District Judge Peter Ward said he believed the police officers and convicted Lennon of common assault.

Judge Ward told Lennon he wanted a probation report before passing sentence.

He said: "I don't think one can rule out a custodial sentence but at the same time I'm keeping it open in light of the report and what is said to the court next time."

Sentencing was adjourned until November 3 when police will apply for a criminal Asbo to prevent Lennon attending EDL rallies.

The Blackburn rally, where 13 arrests were made, cost £500,000 to police, according to Lancashire Police.