A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Darren Saunders.

Trenton Marlowe is accused of killing the 52-year-old, who was found dead at an address on Essex Street in the town on Monday, January 22.

Cleveland Police said officers were called at around 9.10pm.

The 24-year-old, of Overdale Road in Middlesbrough, appeared at Teesside Crown Court today for the short hearing.

The defendant was not asked to enter a plea to the charge.

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Judge Howard Crowson remanded the accused in custody until his next court appearance on April 2.

A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "Police were called to an address on Essex Street, Middlesbrough, and Mr Saunders was found dead. His family are being supported and our thoughts remain with them."