Three men appeared in court on Tuesday in connection with an incident that occurred during a football match three years ago in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear. The case involves a hearse being driven onto the pitch at the game between Dunston UTS and Gateshead. During the stunt, leaflets were reportedly thrown from the vehicle.

The men charged are Graeme Rutherford, 54, John Wright, 42, and Darren Kay, 31. All three face charges of conspiracy to make threats to kill. Additionally, Rutherford and Wright are charged with conspiracy to commit criminal damage. None of the defendants entered a plea at the hearing.

The case was heard before South Tyneside magistrates, who granted bail to all three men. Authorities have indicated that two other individuals have also been charged in relation to the incident, though no further details have been disclosed.

The motive behind the hearse stunt and leaflet distribution has not been publicly explained. The investigation and proceedings continue as the legal process moves forward.