A MAN has appeared in court charged with false imprisonment and rape.

Scott Burrell, 26, of Front Street in Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, has also been charged with assault, two counts of breaching a sexual offences prevention order, two counts of witness intimidation, common assault, using violence to enter premises, criminal damage and sexual assault.

Mr Burrell appeared before Gateshead Magistrates Court on Monday morning and was remanded into custody until his next appearance at Newcastle Crown Court on October 6.