A MAN has appeared in court charged with trying to murder his neighbour.

Serena Keith Williams, 47, is accused of attacking Amarius Hatton, 34, inside her flat in Sackville Road, Hove. He appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court yesterday over the alleged attack shortly after 7pm on Monday evening.

Ms Hatton was playing Playstation when it is claimed he struck her with a knife and tried to smother her with a pillow.

Mr Williams, unemployed, was arrested after another nearby resident heard shouts for help and called 999. The victim was taken to hospital.

Chairman of the bench Ian Goodwin remanded Mr Williams in custody to reappear at Lewes Crown Court on September 25, for a preliminary hearing.

Wearing a blue jumper and jeans, Mr Williams spoke only to give his date of birth at the short hearing.

Shocked nearby residents and workers described seeing emergency services arrive at the flat near Blatchington Road after the incident on Monday evening.

Sam Set, who works at nearby Joeies Convenience Store, said: “There were quite a few police cars and there was an ambulance outside here.

“A customer came in and asked, ‘Do you know what has happened’.

“The police car stayed there until at least 2.30am. It was still there when I left.”

Another nearby resident said: “You do not expect this kind of thing to happen where you live.

“I hope the woman gets better.”

The building where the alleged attack took place is divided into eight flats.

Sergeant Ned Edwards, of Sussex Police, praised the actions of his officers in responding to the attack.

He said on Twitter on Monday: “Last night my team displayed bravery, control, compassion and knowledge in unbelievable circumstances.”

A police spokesman said: “Serena Keith Williams, 47, unemployed of Sackville Road, Hove has been charged with the offence at his neighbour’s flat on Monday at 7.20pm.”