A SUSPECTED carjacker accused of killing a grandmother in her sister's stolen car has been remanded in custody.

Paul Wales, 47, of Gorst Street, Liverpool, spoke only to confirm his name and address during the hearing at South Tyneside magistrates on Saturday.

Mr Wales has been charged with robbery, causing death by dangerous driving, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and causing criminal damage to a mechanical breath analyser at South Shields police station.

Pamela Phinn, 48, was struck by a car in Horsley Hill Road, South Shields, on Thursday. Her two grandchildren and their mother were seriously injured.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating the incident, which happened as the vehicle was being followed by a marked police car.

Mrs Phinn, who worked in Asda in the town, died at the scene. Her son's partner, Kelly Laws, 29, and their children Dean Phinn, 18 months, and Mia Phinn, aged seven months, are in South Tyneside District Hospital.

No application was made for bail at the hearing. Mr Wales is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court, on Thursday.