A MAN arrested in a pre-planned police operation last week appeared before magistrates yesterday.

James Macdonald Brown, of Ropery Walk in Seaham, was charged with robbery, and having an imitation firearm with intent to commit an offence, and was remanded in custody by Peterlee justices.

The 31-year-old was arrested last Friday when armed police officers supported by a helicopter swooped on a car travelling through the village of Sherburn near Durham.

Magistrates remanded Mr Macdonald Brown to Durham Crown Court where he will appear on January 30.