Four people have appeared before magistrates charged in connection with the stabbing of an off-duty police officer.

Pc David Myers, an officer with the Metropolitan Police, was visiting relatives in Hartlepool, Teesside, when he was injured late on Monday night.

He was investigating a group of youths acting suspiciously near a neighbour's car when the incident happened.

Two young men and two youths were today before Hartlepool Magistrates Court.

Graham Anthony Hull, 21, of Whitfield Drive, Hartlepool was remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on July 25 charged with attempted murder, violent disorder and attempted theft from a motor vehicle.

John Paul Ponting, 23, of Ashgrove Avenue, Hartlepool was also charged with violent disorder and attempted theft. He was released on bail pending an appearance at Teesside Crown Court on the same date.

Two 16-year-old boys, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, also appeared before magistrates charged with violent disorder and attempted theft.

They were bailed to appear before Hartlepool Youth Court on August 8.

No pleas were entered by any defendants on any of the charges. Pc Myers, based in Ilford, Essex, underwent surgery and was today said to be in a ''comfortable'' condition in James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.