A MAN alleged to have carried out an attempted rape attack on an elderly woman after breaking into her home, appeared in court yesterday.

Michael Rochester, 26, is accused of trying to rape the 87-year-old woman in the break-in at her home in Sunderland, on November 16.

He is charged with burglary with intent to rape, attempted rape, indecent assault and assault causing actual bodily harm.

His alleged victim remains in Sunderland Royal Hospital, suffering bruising and a heart condition, aggravated by the ordeal.

Mr Rochester, of Grangetown, Sunderland, came before city magistrates who adjourned the hearing for a week.

They remanded him in custody, to come before Newcastle Crown Court on December 12. There was no bail application.