Man accused of plotting to kidnap and murder Holly Willoughby pleads not guilty
The man accused of plotting to kidnap and murder ITV This Morning star Holly Willoughby has appeared in a pre-trial and plea hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court today.
Gavin Plumb, 36, is accused of having contact with a "third party" in America to snatch and kill the former This Morning host. According to the charges, he allegedly "solicited, encouraged, persuaded, endeavoured to persuade" a third party to murder Mrs Willoughby, 42.
Plumb, of Potters Field, Harlow pleaded not guilty to the charges of soliciting to commit murder and incitement to kidnap as he appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court today. Plumb wore a grey T-shirt and touched his face as details were heard. He spoke only to confirm his name and entered not guilty pleas to the two charges.
Judge Mary Loram KC told Plumb he would face a trial next year and remanded him in custody. She said: "Mr Plumb I'm adjourning your case for trial and that trial will take place on June 24 next year."
Shopping centre security guard and ex-Pizza Hut worker Plumb was charged for an alleged plot to kidnap and murder the TV star between October 2 and October 5. He was charged on October 6 and was remanded to custody. Plumb appeared in court today for the plea and trial preparation hearing.
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Holly, 42, was pulled from appearing on This Morning after police altered the show's bosses of an alleged threat moments before she was due on air. She was replaced at the last minute by Alison Hammond, who appeared alongside Josie Gibson – but a reason for Holly's absence wasn't given at the time.
Gavin Plumb entered a plea at court todayTV star Holly, who has rekindled her friendship with Phillip Schofield in the wake of the alleged foiled plot, was placed under 24 hour police guard and was said to be left feeling 'distraught'.
After Plumb was charged, Superintendent Tim Tubbs of Essex Police said: "This was an extremely fast paced investigation, with many of our officers and national partners working overnight to secure these charges. The safeguarding of any victim is paramount and we will continue to prioritise this as the investigation proceeds."
Days later, Holly announced her decision to quit This Morning after 14 years. In a statement shared on Instagram, Holly wrote: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much. This such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together.
Days after the alleged plot was foiled, Holly Willoughby announced her decision to quit This Morning (S Meddle/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)"Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you. Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day.
"Richard and Judy said, 'We only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers.' It's been an honour to just be part of it's story and I know this story has many chapters left to go. Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much. Holly."
She was soon flooded with support from celebrity friends as Vanessa Feltz commented: "We will miss you so very much my darling," and Alison Hammond added: "This is a very sad day! Love you." This Morning guest presenter Rochelle Humes said: "This is a sad day We love you x."
Guest chef Juliet Sear wrote: "So sad to see you go Holly wishing you loads of positive things for your new chapter xxx it’s been wonderful working with you for the last 8 years and making your birthday cakes to for the last 14 lots of love to you and you family xxx." Another chef Donal Skehan said: "Always the most lovely host each and every time I was on with you- thank you for being so sweet over the years and onwards and upwards! Sending lots of love D xx."
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