Scotsman in court over parade trouble

A Scottish man has been remanded in custody in connection with the disorder at a loyalist parade in Belfast.

James Boyce is accused of provoking trouble by running through the middle of protesters during the Royal Black Institution's annual demonstration.

Trouble broke out after bandsmen defied restrictions on marching past a Catholic church on Donegall Street.

Boyce, a 38-year-old lift equipment inspector from Benvorlich Drive, Glasgow, faces charges of carrying out a provocative act and using disorderly behaviour.

Belfast Magistrates' Court heard he has been identified on CCTV footage from the scene.

A detective constable told the court the accused travels to Northern Ireland to attend marches and participate.

The accused initially claimed that he just happened to come behind a peaceful protest by residents, the court heard.

According to the officer Boyce was also in Belfast for the Twelfth of July Orange Order parade and was aware of contentious issues surrounding the same band marching past St Patrick's.

A prosecution lawyer said more charges may follow once the CCTV evidence has been studied further.

Boyce's solicitor said he accepted being the person seen on the footage.

The lawyer said his client, a father of two, had travelled to Northern Ireland with his father.

He warned that unless Boyce turns up for work on Tuesday he would lose his job.

"What has already been a devastating experience for him will obviously then be compounded," he said.

However, District Judge Ken Nixon refused bail due to the risk of re-offending and not turning up for trial.

Boyce was remanded in custody to appear again by video-link on 24 September.