Man in court over anthrax alert

The package arrived at a Bath fast food outlet

A man accused of sending an envelope of white powder to a colleague causing an anthrax alert, has appeared in court.

Celil Surmelek, 36, of Maris kebab shop in Bath, appeared at Bath Magistrates Court charged with wasting police time.

Mr Surmelek allegedly sent Erdal Kolcak an envelope containing the white powder, which later proved to be harmless, on 18 October.

The original charge of assault causing actual bodily harm due to the fear of injury caused to the recipient was dropped.

Mr Surmelek, who has lived in Britain for six years after coming from Turkey, was granted conditional bail.

John Chard, chairman of the magistrates, adjourned the case for two weeks until 2 November for the defence to consider the new charge.