A MAN has appeared in court accused of attempting to rape a woman in the Royal Pavilion Gardens.

Andrew Ford entered the dock at Brighton Magistrates’ Court today.

The 23-year-old labourer is accused of attempted rape and false imprisonment in the gardens behind the Royal Pavilion on June 8.

He wore a grey jumper and trousers as he appeared in the dock flanked by security guards.

The clerk asked him to confirm his name and address.

Ford confirmed both with the clerk and said: "That's correct."

He then gave his date of birth and nationality before sitting down in the five minute hearing.

The clerk read out the charges and said Ford was accused of assaulting a woman and unlawfully and injuriously imprisoning her, contrary to common law.

A second charge was that on the same date he had intentionally attempted to rape her when she was not consenting, and while he did not reasonably believe she was consenting.

Martina Sherlock, prosecuting, said, the matters were serious enough to be committed to Crown Court.

Andrew Foreman, defending, made no observations.

Magistrate Barbara Dart, said, Ford would be remanded in custody.

Ford was handcuffed and led to cells by the security guards.

Police were called after the alleged incident was reported at 5.45am on June 8.

The area was sealed off from the public for several hours while the inquiry began.

Scene of crime officers were seen photographing the scene in white overalls, while officers stood guard at several entrances.

The public were not allowed to enter the area for the day as the investigation was done.

A woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was taken to hospital after the incident.

She has been receiving specialist support from the police.

Detectives had issued CCTV images and a public appeal. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police online or call 101 and quote Operation Cobalt.

Now Ford, of Bramble Way, Brighton, is set to appear before Lewes Crown Court on July 17 for a preliminary hearing.