A MAN has appeared in court accused of murder.

Vincent David Bell was brought before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on Monday morning.

Damian Banks, 34, died after suffering stab wounds at a house in Durham city in the early hours of Saturday.

The 35-year-old, of Turnbull Close, Durham, wept as he stood in the dock in handcuffs.

No pleas were entered and the case was sent to the crown court.

Mr Bell was remanded in custody and will next appear at Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday, April 3, at 10am.

Mr Bell's family were also present at court.