RELATIVES of a 65-year-old widow shouted threats and abuse at a teenager who appeared in court yesterday charged with rape.

Several police officers entered the public gallery to calm the disturbance as David Humphrey, 19, who is also charged with aggravated burglary, was led away.

The teenager, of Deepdale Avenue, Middlesbrough, spoke only to confirm his name and address when he appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court.

He is accused of attacking the woman in her home in The Grove, in the Marton area of Middlesbrough, last Thursday.

No pleas were taken and there was no application for bail on behalf of Mr Humphrey, who appeared wearing a red England football shirt.

He was remanded in custody until October 11, when he will re-appear before Teesside Crown Court.

It was as he was being taken from the courtroom, that the emotional scenes erupted in the public gallery.

Up to 15 people were escorted by police from the court, but no arrests were made.

A police spokeswoman said that the woman, who remains in hospital, is being interviewed by specially trained officers.

She said: "The lady has now managed to speak to officers and give them a full account of what happened."

Another man, also aged 19 and who was arrested on suspicion of the burglary, is still being questioned by Cleveland Police.

Officers will today make an application to Teesside Magistrates' Court for a warrant to detain him for questioning for a further 36 hours.

Over the weekend three other people were arrested and bailed in connection with the attack.

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and two women, aged 30 and 19, on suspicion of handling stolen property.

Police are still appealing for anyone who can help the investigation to contact the incident room on (01642) 303189.