Attempted murder accused in court

Former Fylde Council worker Stefan Martens faces a charge of attempting to murder 97-year-old Janek Martens at the £250,000 home they share on Blackpool Road North, St Annes.

Martens, 57, appeared before magistrates at Blackpool in a black T-shirt and spoke only to confirm his name, age and address.

He was arrested after police were called to the house on Sunday.

Widower Mr Martens senior is currently critically ill at Royal Preston Infirmary after being taken there by air ambulance.

He suffered multiple injuries which the prosecution allege were inflicted by a saw and hammer.

Stefan Martens was remanded in custody and the case against him was sent to Preston Crown Court where he will appear on April 24.

No application for bail was made for him.