Alan Lea, 35, appeared before Liverpool City Magistrates on Monday charged with the kidnap of former restaurateur Charles Seiga, 58, who was abducted outside his home in the West Derby area of the city on 20 November.

Mr Seiga was kidnapped as he left his Liverpool home

Mr Seiga, who was bound, scalded, punched and kicked during his ordeal, underwent hospital treatment but was not seriously injured.

Mr Lea, of Cockerell Close, Anfield, Liverpool, is also accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, firearms offences and motoring offences.

He was remanded in custody until Tuesday when he will appear alongside co-defendant Brian Airey, of Corney Street, Wavertree, Liverpool.

Mr Airey, 28, was remanded in custody last week charged with the kidnapping. He also faces charges of grievous bodily harm and two separate firearms offences.

There was no application for bail and reporting restrictions were not lifted.