A TEENAGER has appeared in court accused of the murder of a man in a County Durham village.

Josh Alan Johnson, of Middlewood, Ushaw Moor, appeared from custody at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court today (August 8).

It is alleged that he killed 32-year-old Dale Arnold, of School Avenue, Kelloe, on Wednesday, August 3.

Wearing a grey jacket and white shirt, the defendant did not make any plea and spoke only to confirm his name, age and address.

Around ten family members of the accused were present.

Some members of the family sobbed during the proceedings, which lasted only five minutes.

District Judge Martin Walker explained that by law he had to send the case to crown court and was unable to take any applications for bail.

Mr Johnson, who was represented by Neil Taylor, was remanded in custody.

He will appear before Teesside Crown Court where a hearing will take place on or before Wednesday, August 10.