An Aberystwyth man who appeared in court to deny charges of being in possession of swords and a knuckle duster and stalking a woman has been held in custody by magistrates.

Karl Festa, of 6 Pantyderi, Llanbadarn Road, appeared before Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court on 7 January.

The 38-year-old is charged with three counts of being in possession of an offensive weapon at his home address on 5 January, including two swords and a knuckle duster.

Festa is also accused of the stalking involving serious alarm or distress of a woman on the same day.

Festa was remanded in custody and is next due to appear for a hearing at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on 13 January.

A trial date has been set for 24 February.