A BLOGGER will face trial for allegedly writing an obscene and offensive message on the internet.

John Graham Kerlen, who uses the online alias of the English revolutionary Olly Cromwell, pleaded not guilty to a charge of sending an offensive or obscene message by means of a public communication network at Bexley Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of six months in prison and a fine of upto £5,000.

The 37-year-old runs a site which includes strongly-worded criticisms of Bexley Council and Bexley Police.

Kerlen, of Glebelands in Crayford, arrived at court facing a charge of harassment without violence of “various Bexley Councillors” which was dropped when no evidence was offered before the new charge was added.

Kerlen’s pre-hearing bail condition that he does not refer directly or indirectly to any Bexley Councillor on any social network were extended until his next appearance, for trial, at Greenwich Magistrates’ Court on February 14.