A TAXI driver appeared before magistrates on Saturday morning charged with the murder of New Year partygoer Colin Arnold.

An investigation was launched after Mr Arnold, 34, of Sadberge Road, Stockton, was found fatally wounded outside a house in the town at 4am on New Years Day.

He had been at a house party in Brignall Road with his wife, Vicky, 33, and about 20 other people.

The 25-year-old taxi driver was remanded in custody until Thursday when he will again appear at Teesside Magistrates' Court.