A WOMAN accused of trying to murder a pensioner with a hammer in a public toilet block has appeared in court by video link.

Ellen Margaret Louise Pounder, 47, of Carperby, near Leyburn, spoke only to confirm her name at Teesside Crown Court, in Middlesbrough, yesterday.

Miss Pounder is accused of attempting to murder an 84-year-old woman in public toilets in Leyburn, North Yorkshire, last Monday.

Shaun Dodds, prosecuting, said the Crown was still waiting for medical evidence from the attack.

Brian Russell, defending, said his client’s plea would depend on that evidence.

No plea was entered and Miss Pounder will appear back in court on February 3.

She was remanded in custody.