A WIRRAL man has appeared in court charged with rape and false imprisonment.

Kenneth Andrew Watts, of Grange Mount, Prenton, appeared before Wirral magistrates on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old, who spoke only to confirm his name and address, is charged with rape, false imprisonment, bodily harm assault and causing criminal damage to an iPhone.

The offences are alleged to have taken place on December 27, last year.

Watts, who did not enter a plea, was remanded in custody and will appear at Liverpool Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on February 19.