A Cambridge University graduate gave a judge a Nazi salute after appearing in court accused of writing online that extermination was the “best option” for Jews.

Oliver Bel, from Oldham, Manchester, appeared at the Old Bailey via video link charged with using a public electronic communications network to send a grossly offensive message, after allegedly making the comment on a neo-Nazi forum in 2017.

Mr Bel, 23, is also accused of possessing The Anarchist’s Cookbook, a manual containing instructions relating to explosives and weapons.

According to a court report, the judge slammed Mr Bel for making the gesture in court.

The mathematics graduate will next appear in court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 12 June. A one-week trial will take place from 2 November at Manchester Crown Court.