A MAN has appeared before magistrates accused of robbing a convenience store on Good Friday.

Christopher Williams, 31, was arrested after a man wearing a Halloween mask and pink gloves struck at Sainsbury’s on The Avenue in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, at 8.45am, on Friday, April 18.

Mr Williams, who was dressed in a grey top, spoke only to confirm his name when he appeared at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court today (Friday, April 25).

He did not plead to a charge of stealing £817 from a female member of staff.

Prosecutor Guy Prest invited magistrates to commit the case to Durham Crown Court.

Paul Donoghue, defending, said he had not been instructed to apply for bail.

Mr Williams of Red Rose Terrace, Chester-le-Street, was remanded in custody to appear at Durham Crown Court on May 9.