A 15-year-old boy, alleged to be affiliated with a banned neo-Nazi organization, has refuted claims that he was plotting a terrorist act.

Hailing from Northumberland, he faces charges related to conducting preparations for acts of terrorism on or prior to February 20, along with a count of belonging to the proscribed group known as The Base.

It is claimed that the defendant intended to target a telecommunications mast and had conducted online searches for local places of worship, specifically synagogues.

During a plea hearing conducted via video link at the Old Bailey, he entered a not guilty plea regarding the accusations. A trial has been scheduled for the upcoming year.

The Base, characterized as a right-wing white supremacist faction, was designated a terrorist organization by the Home Office in July 2021.

According to court testimony, the minor, whose identity remains protected due to his age, reportedly initiated discussions about orchestrating a terrorist attack with an undisclosed person earlier this year.

He is charged with collecting equipment and armaments, including a crossbow, and downloading extremist literature.

Arrested on February 20, the teenager is set to face a trial lasting four to six weeks, commencing on January 13 of next year at Leeds Crown Court.

Mrs. Justice Cheema-Grubb announced that an additional preparatory hearing is scheduled for December 5.

The boy has been remanded in custody.