A north Wales man has been extradited from Ireland to face serious sexual charges.

Defendant Keith Bellis, who formerly lived on the Ty'n Llan estate at Llanferres, near Mold, appeared at Flintshire magistrates' court on Saturday charged with four offences of rape and one of indecent assault.

The court heard that his wherabouts had not been known but following police enquiries it was discovered that he had been living in Ireland.

He was arrested and served with extradition papers on Wednesday and arrived back in Britain on Friday, explained crown prosecutor Andrew Warman.

Pipe fitter Bellis, 41, was remanded in custody pending eventual committal to the crown court.

Defending solicitor Mr Chris Jesse said the extradition process had been quick because his client had not opposed them and he did not apply to the court for bail.