A MAN appeared in court accused of attempting to murder his estranged wife by pouring petrol on her and trying to set it alight.

Consett Magistrates Court was told that Mark Laverick allegedly doused Beverley Laverick with the accelerant and threw lit matches at her before trying to put a flame to her clothes with a lighter.

The incident is said to have taken place in Reynolds Close, Stanley, County Durham, between 9am and 9.30am on Monday.

Mr Laverick, 40, from Chester Road, East Stanley, was arrested by police and has been charged with attempted murder.

When he appeared in court today he wore a dark blue T-shirt and he spoke only to confirm his name, age and address.

No pleas have been entered at this stage.

David Malone, who represented Mr Laverick, made no application for bail.

Mr Laverick was remanded into custody and told he will appear before Durham Crown Court on July 15.