A man accused of climbing Big Ben’s iconic Elizabeth Tower while waving a Palestinian flag has denied charges of causing a public nuisance and trespassing on a protected site.
Daniel Day, 29, of Palmerston Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded not guilty to both offences in connection with the March 8 incident.
Wearing yellow-and-blue trousers and a black T-shirt, Day spoke only to confirm his name and enter his pleas during a brief 15-minute hearing. As he left the courtroom, supporters in the public gallery called out “stay strong, Dan” and “we love you.”
Dramatic Scene at Westminster Landmark
The incident began when police were alerted at 7:24am on Friday 8 March to reports of a man climbing the Elizabeth Tower, the world-famous clock tower that houses Big Ben. The area around Bridge Street was immediately cordoned off, and remained closed throughout the day while negotiations took place to bring the climber down safely.
Day was eventually arrested just after 1am on March 9, approximately 16 hours after the incident began.
The event prompted a large emergency services presence in the area and significant disruption to traffic and pedestrian routes near the Palace of Westminster.
Protest and Court Hearing
Outside the court on Monday, around a dozen pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in support of Day, waving flags and beating a drum, with chants audible from inside the courthouse. Supporters described Day’s actions as a form of protest, though authorities have stressed the seriousness of the charges due to the security implications and public disruption.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Day has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on April 14 for a further hearing.
The charges include:
- Intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance
- Trespassing on a protected site under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005
If found guilty, Day could face a significant custodial sentence, as both charges carry maximum penalties of imprisonment and fines.
Further updates will follow as the case progresses through the courts.
