Trial of man accused of Lincoln A&E arson to start next week

John Gillion Watson, 56, of Vicarage Court, Sleaford, denies two charges of arson.

The unit was evacuated with no injuries to patients or staff but ambulances were diverted to other hospitals in Lincolnshire, as well as further afield. It also disrupted the main x-ray and scanning department situated next door.

Watson has pleaded not guilty to a charge of arson with intent to endanger life on March 29 and an alternative offence of arson being reckless to endanger life on the same date.

It is alleged damage of £180,000 was caused to Lincoln County Hospital.

A pre-trial hearing at Lincoln Crown Court was today (Wednesday) told that Watson's trial is listed to start on Monday September 26.

The trial is expected to last several days.