44-year-old Norton Downer has pleaded not guilty to a string of offences, including arson, following 2 separate incidents in Newport.

Downer, of Madeira Lane in Freshwater, appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court last Thursday accused of 4 offences including arson, dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen and assaulting an emergency worker.

It’s alleged that on 28th June this year, Downer set fire to a Ford Fiesta on Ash Road, Newport intending to destroy or damage the vehicle, or being reckless as to whether such property would be destroyed.

He is further accused of driving a Citroen Berlingo dangerously on St George’s Approach, Newport on the 14th of this month before then failing to provide a specimen of blood for analysis.

Downer is also accused of assaulting an emergency worker by beating, namely PC Martin, on the same day.

The case has been sent to the Isle of Wight Crown Court for trial on 26th September 2022. Norton Downer has been given conditional bail until that date.

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