Man in court over Potter thefts

A Northants man has appeared before magistrates charged with handling two stolen Harry Potter books.

Christopher Brown, 37, from Kettering, is accused of handling the new Half Blood Prince books, allegedly offered to Sun newspaper reporter John Askill.

Mr Brown is also accused of possession of an offensive weapon. He has denied both charges.

Aaron Lambert, 19, from Kettering, has already been committed for trial accused of taking the books on 2 June.

Mr Lambert is also accused of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause Mr Askill to fear violence.

The books, written by JK Rowling, belonged to Bloomsbury Publishing.

Magistrates heard that Mr Brown was present when an accomplice offered the two Half Blood Prince books to one set of reporters for £80,000 and to a second set of reporters for £50,000.

Mr Brown has denied the charges and the case was adjourned for six weeks.

His unconditional bail was extended.