A MAN accused of carrying an axe just yards from where the Queen was due to begin a walkabout in Huddersfield has pleaded not guilty to possessing an offensive weapon.

Daniel Bleazard, 34, was arrested 30 minutes before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh arrived to begin the walkabout in St George’s Square, Huddersfield.

The alleged incident happened in the packed square just yards from where the royal party later alighted from their vehicles during the visit to West Yorkshire.

Bleazard, of Adelphi Road, Marsh, yesterday denied a charge of possessing an offensive weapon and breaching an anti-social behaviour order at Bradford Crown Court.

His case was adjourned to his trial.

This was provisionally listed for the week of December 17.