Gavin Plumb sentenced to life in prison for attempted kidnapping of Holly Willoughby

Niamh Ryan

Ex-security guard Gavin Plumb will face a minimum term of 15 years and 85 days for his plot to kidnap and murder Holly Willoughby

Plumb had pleaded not guilty to his plot to harm Holly Willoughby, despite text messages and other evidence.

“The sentence handed down to Gavin Plumb ensures he will remain in prison, where he can no longer threaten or harm women,” said specialist prosecutor Nicola Rice.

“There is no doubt Gavin Plumb posed a real danger and the CPS proved that his plans to kidnap, rape, and murder Holly Willoughby were more than a mere fantasy and he had every intention of encouraging others to help him.

“I hope today’s sentence brings some comfort to the victim, as well as the victim of his previous offences, and sends a clear message that the CPS will always bring the strongest possible case against those who plan violence against women.”

Plumb was arrested last October after being involved in an online chat with an undercover police officer.

Following an investigation, the police found ‘millions’ of pictures of female celebrities on Plumb’s phone. There were also Google searches for ‘How to meet people who plan to kidnap celebrities.’

Threads of text messages also included the plot to kidnap, rape, and murder Willoughby in graphic detail.

In one message, Plumb wrote “I’ve wanted this for years. I’m going to be living out my ultimate fantasy.”

While Holly Willoughby was not present during the trial, she provided a victim impact statement.

Justice Edward Murray read the statement privately, per her wishes.

“I simply note I am satisfied these offences have had life-changing consequences for her both privately and professionally,” he said.

He also praised Willoughby for her “considerable courage” for waiving her right to anonymity in the case.

The former This Morning presenter made a statement earlier this month:

“As women, we should not be made to feel unsafe going about our daily lives and in our homes.

“I will forever be grateful to the undercover police officer who understood the imminent threat and to the Metropolitan and Essex police for their swift response.”

Plumb was previously imprisoned for 31 months after attacking four women in 2006 and 2008.