A SEX attacker launched a terrifying street assault after following his victim from a train, a court heard.

Newcastle Crown Court was told Richard Hazell pounced after he saw the woman on a Metro train travelling from St James's, in Newcastle, to North Tyneside, but was too shy to talk to her.

A jury heard that the 23-year-old told his terrified victim that he had never had sex despite going out with girls before.

He said he would rape the blonde and told her he would kill her if she did not do what he said, the court heard.

Mr Hazell, of Mill Dam, South Shields, South Tyneside, denies indecent assault, false imprisonment and making threats to kill.

Robert Woodcock, prosecuting, told the court: "No doubt having seen she was a pretty, attractive, striking young lady, he followed her until he plucked up the courage to approach and assault her.

"He accosted her from behind, dragged her to the floor and pinned her down, having told her if she did not do as he said, he would kill her."

The court heard how the attack, which happened near West Monkseaton Metro Station, was brought to an end when a passer-by realised what was happening.

The woman, who is in her early twenties, told the court she saw a man sitting near her on the Metro looking at her.

She said she had a feeling there was someone behind her as she walked home just before she was attacked.

The trial continues.