A MAN has appeared in court charged with inciting a 12-year-old to engage in sexual activity and a count of child grooming.

Andrew David Lloyd, 37, of Katherine Street, Darlington, appeared before Consett Magistrates’ Court today. (Tuesday, January 14)

He is facing four charges of inciting sexual activity with a girl under 13 and one count of grooming on two occasions between December 29, 2012, and April 1, last year.

It is said the offences were committed in Durham.

John Garside, prosecuting, said: “The defendant comes before the court charged with offences that are indictable only.

“I would invite the court to send this matter to Durham Crown Court for a preliminary hearing.”

No indication of plea was made and no representations were made on Mr Lloyd’s behalf.

Magistrates adjourned proceedings and he will next appear at Durham Crown Court on January 28.

Conditional bail has been granted.