A MAN has appeared in court accused of indecently assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

Michael Gibson, 32, of Sidney Street, Houghton-le-Spring appeared at Durham Crown Court via video link from Durham Prison.

No charges were put to Gibson during the short preliminary hearing.

The alleged offence took place between August 1 and September 30 last year.

Recorder Sophie Drake ordered a plea hearing to take place on February 20 and a provisional trial date was set for March 10.

Recorder Drake remanded Mr Gibson in custody.