Man accused of assault wants to renounce his citizenship

A man who declared at Lerwick Sheriff Court today he wished to renounce his British citizenship has been remanded in custody for seven days.

John Harding, 39, of Kirkidale, Walls, appeared from custody, charged with assaulting and threatening a female GP at Walls Health Centre on Friday and then struggling violently with two police constables who came to the scene.

On his initial appearance in the dock, Harding refused to confirm his name. After being locked up for a few hours he then reluctantly confirmed it, but said “in front of witnesses” that he wished to renounce his citizenship.

Procurator fiscal Duncan MacKenzie said the case should be continued without plea.

Honorary sheriff Arnold Duncan said bail would not be appropriate, as there were “substantial reasons” why Harding might commit other offences. In the public interest, the sheriff said, Harding should be remanded in custody for his own safety and that of the public.