Man on trial posed ‘imminent threat’ to Holly Willoughby, US officer tells jury

A court artist’s drawing of Gavin Plumb (right), who denies plotting to kidnap, rape and murder Holly Willoughby. Photograph: Elizabeth Cook/PA

A security guard on trial for allegedly plotting to murder Holly Willoughby posed an “imminent threat” to her safety, the US-based undercover officer who flagged his apparent intentions to UK police told a jury on Thursday.

The officer appeared at Chelmsford crown court via video link using the alias David Nelson to give evidence in the trial of 37-year-old Gavin Plumb, who denies plotting to kidnap, rape and murder Willoughby.