Former Corby Reform councillor appears in court to deny racism offences
A Reform councillor who has denied two racism offences will go before a crown court jury.
Robert Bloom, 43, of Weldon Road, Corby, made his first appearance in court this mornng (Thursday, November 13) charged with two offences.
Between the end of June and mid October this year, he is accused of racially aggravated harassment in that he is said to have called his female neighbour a ‘ratchety old ******’ and repeatedly used the ‘n’ word in front of her children, as well as saying that her presence would lower property prices in the area.
The crown says he consistently loitered outside their address and used ‘vile’ language, which he denies.
A second similar offence relates to the female victim’s husband.
Bloom arrived at court this morning in a black anorak pulled up over his chin, over a grey suit.
In court 3, the charges were read to him and he pleaded not guilty to both.
Magistrates said they were happy to retain jurisdiction but Bloom elected to have the case heard before a jury at the crown court.
His case was adjourned and he was bailed until January 8, 2026, when he is due to appear at Northampton Crown Court.
Bloom was elected as a Reform councillor for the Lloyds and Corby Village ward at May’s election. He stood down after the allegations emerged in August.