Trial date set for former Reform councillor on racism charges

Robert Bloom, who previously represented the Lloyds and Corby Village ward, made his first hearing before Northampton Crown Court yesterday (Thursday, January 15).

He was formally arraigned on two charges of racially-aggravated harassment before His Honour Judge David Herbert KC. The charges involve repeatedly calling male and female neighbours the ‘n’ word and using the slur in front of children over a period of four months last year.

He is also accused of telling them their presence would lower property prices in the area.

Former Reform member Bloom, 43, of Weldon Road, quietly pleaded not guilty as each charge was read to him.

A three-day trial was set for August this year. Bloom was conditionally bailed ahead of the trial.