THE trial of a Young Communist League (YCL) activist for taking part in the Cop26 protests got underway today after almost two years of delays.

The climate summit was held in the city in November 2021, attracting climate protesters from around the world as they attempted to convince world leaders of the need for decisive action on climate change.

Just days after the Prime Minister announced plans to expand oil production, which critics say risks flying in the face of commitments given at Cop26, Nathan Hennebry gained the distinction of being the only person to face a trial as a result of actions at the summit.

The Glasgow YCL secretary was arrested after the enormous protest march along with dozens of other activists on the day.

But despite most of those arrested being released that evening, or early the next day, Mr Hennebry was detained for almost 24 hours before being charged with culpable and reckless conduct.

The trial began today as the prosecution outlined its case to jurors.

Mr Hennebry, who had been marching with his comrades in the YCL, is accused of endangering police officers by holding a flare at the rally.

PC James Anderson, called as a prosecution witness, stated that the YCL bloc had chosen to stop, causing a break in the procession, before setting off and holding “10,11,12” flares over their heads.

The constable went on to state that the YCL bloc had been placed in what he termed a “box cordon” – the only one of dozens of groups in a march of tens of thousands to be policed in this way.

Defence counsel put it to the officer that the bloc had stopped and set the flares off as a “photo opportunity” and not to cause disruption.

PC Anderson went on to describe Mr Hennebry holding another flare “in parallel to the ground” which he reported to senior officers, concerned the sparks could land on the clothing or hats of officers from the cordon – the incident which led to the eventual arrest.

Under questioning from defence counsel, PC Anderson accepted the officers he claimed were at risk appeared unaware, and that he did not know who they were.

The trial was adjourned to consider legal arguments and will reconvene this morning when the prosecution is expected to conclude their arguments and Mr Hennebry will mount his defence.