A MAN has this morning appeared in court accused of murdering a County Durham man and holding a woman against her will for nine hours.

Robert Askew, of Wood View, in Esh Winning, is accused of the murder of David Teague on Saturday.

He also faces charges of false imprisonment of a woman, between 7.30am and 4.30pm on the same day, and of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against the same victim.

All of the offences are said to have taken place in Mr Askew’s house.

In a brief hearing at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court, the 34-year-old, who was wearing a dark Adidas tracksuit top, spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

District Judge Helen Cousins committed the case to Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, April 30.

Mr Askew, represented by Susanne Hanson, was remanded into custody until his next court appearance.

Durham Police said David Teague was found by police and paramedics inside a house in Esh Winning on Saturday.

He had sustained serious injuries and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, the 33-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.

A police spokesperson said on Tuesday night: "Five other individuals who were also arrested on Saturday have been released with no further action.

“Mr Teague’s family are being supported by police, and we would like to offer our sincere condolences at this difficult time."