
A former security guard convicted of orchestrating a depraved plot to kidnap, rape and murder television presenter Holly Willoughby has failed in his bid to overturn his 16-year prison sentence.
Gavin Plumb, 33, from Harlow, Essex, was found guilty last year of planning what prosecutors described as a "kidnap and rape plot of shocking brutality" against the beloved This Morning host.
The Chilling Evidence
During the trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, jurors heard how Plumb had:
- Stockpiled restraint equipment including cable ties and rope
- Researched Willoughby's studio schedule and home address
- Shared his disturbing plans with an undercover police officer online
- Discussed methods of gaining entry to the ITV studios
Police described the plot as "one of the most shocking" they had encountered, with the evidence revealing Plumb's detailed preparations to carry out his horrific scheme.
Appeal Court Rejection
This week, senior judges at the Court of Appeal dismissed Plumb's attempt to challenge both his conviction and sentence. The ruling means he must serve the full 16-year term imposed last year, with an extended licence period of five years.
In their judgment, the appeal court judges stated that the original trial had been conducted fairly and that the sentence appropriately reflected the gravity of Plumb's crimes.
Impact on Holly Willoughby
The revelation of the plot led to Willoughby's immediate departure from her role on This Morning after 14 years on the daytime programme. The popular presenter took a sudden leave of absence before announcing she would not return to the show for the sake of herself and her family.
Willoughby has since maintained a lower public profile while continuing her work on other television projects, though the psychological impact of discovering such a detailed threat against her life has been profound.
The Metropolitan Police provided increased security measures for the presenter throughout the investigation and trial period.