Winchester Three Explained

The Winchester Three were three young Irish citizens (Martina Shanahan, Finbar Cullen and John McCann) who were found guilty in 1988 of a plot to murder British politician Tom King, who was the Northern Ireland Secretary at the time, and sentenced to 25 years in prison.^{[1] [2]} Their convictions were later quashed by the Court of Appeal, after having served two-and-a-half years.^{[2] [3]} The decision was criticised by Lord Denning.^[4]

Shanahan died on February 17, 2021.^[5]

Notes and References

1. Book: Brewer's Dictionary of Modern Phrase & Fable. John. Ayto. Ian. Crofton. John. Ayto. Ian. Crofton. 15 December 2011. Chambers Harrap Publishers. www.oxfordreference.com. 10.1093/acref/9780199916108.001.0001. 978-0-19-991610-8.
2. Web site: Gun haul 'may have been linked to murder attempt on Tom King'. The Irish News.
3. Web site: BBC News | History | 1990-92: Start of the talks process. news.bbc.co.uk.
4. Web site: Denning condemns freeing of the Winchester Three. HeraldScotland. 30 April 1990 .
5. https://www.anphoblacht.com/contents/28022