Photos reveal array of weapons gathered by extremist Chesterfield soldier jailed for terror-linked offences

Mark Broadhurst, of Scott Close, Chesterfield, has been jailed for possession of explosives and firearms for terrorist purposes following a sentencing hearing at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday, October 14.

A police search at Broadhurst’s home address and his quarters at the barracks where he worked as a chef, revealed an array of weapons including crossbows, air pistols, rifles – and an improvised homemade cannon.

Photos released during the trial show the weapons uncovered by officers as well as images of Broadhurst, who was a serving member of the British Army.

The 28-year-old came to the attention of the police after posting in online forums which demonstrated his racist views and ‘extreme right wing ideology’.

He also showed an interest in forming a militia armed force.

At a previous hearing, Broadhurst denied the offences were terror-related, but the judge found that he was trying to impress other members of extreme right-wing groups and encourage them in their violent, racist and anti-authority ideology.

Matthew Donkin KC, prosecuting, said most of the activity surrounding the offending happened before he joined the army.

Counter terror police became aware of Broadhurst while carrying out investigations on other members of extreme right-wing groups and saw his messages on two online forums.

Mr Donkin said: “The things he was posting were hateful, racist, aggressive and they demonstrated clear, extreme right-wing beliefs and views.”

The messages demonstrated a hatred of “black, Asian, Muslim and Jewish people”, the prosecution said.

He made references to anarchy, the end of society and his preparedness to bring this about, the Crown said.

He wanted to be “in history books and criminal records” for terrorism and killing police officers, the court heard.

And he shared the online order he made for the ingredients to make gunpowder.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: “Whilst Broadhurst pleaded guilty to these offences, he did not accept that his intent had a terrorist motivation.

“A thorough investigation was conducted which uncovered an extreme right-wing mindset and he was engaging in extensive conversations online with other individuals who hold the similar views.

“He was proactively ordering components to make explosives, plus he amassed multiple weapons including firearms.

“After hearing the extensive evidence compiled throughout our investigation, the Judge was satisfied his offending had a terrorist connection.

“I welcome the sentence handed down to Broadhurst which reflects his mindset and the danger he posed to the public.”

Broadhurst, has been jailed for three years and 10 months and has been handed a 10-year notification order.