Tommy Robinson. ( Archived) (10)

Former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson has appeared in court over a contempt of court allegation.

Hundreds of supporters and opponents of the right-wing activist gathered outside the Old Bailey on Thursday.

Robinson, 35, is alleged to have committed contempt by filming people in a criminal trial and broadcasting footage on social media.

The case was adjourned until October. Robinson claimed the authorities "want me in prison for Christmas".

Recorder of London Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC said he would receive written submissions before making a ruling on whether there will be a substantive hearing at a later date.

Robinson, from Luton, was referred to by his real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon throughout the brief hearing.

He was released from prison last month after three leading judges quashed a finding made at Leeds Crown Court in May, and granted him conditional bail from a 13-month jail sentence.

Robinson appealed against both contempt findings at a hearing last month overseen by Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett, Mr Justice Turner and Mrs Justice McGowan.

They found the judge in Leeds should not have commenced contempt proceedings that day.

Speaking outside the Old Bailey earlier, Robinson criticised delays in the case, saying: "I believe they want me in prison for Christmas."