A CARLISLE man accused of attempting to rob a teenager in a city park late at night has been remanded in custody.

Ryan Ferguson, 29, of Weardale Road, Carlisle, is accused of attempting to rob a 19-year-old man in Melbourne Park, Botcherby, at 11pm on December 20. Prosecutors say he attempted to steal the alleged victim’s iPhone and tobacco tin.

The defendant, who was represented by defence lawyer Mark Shepherd, claims that he acted in self-defence, the court heard.

At the city’s Rickergate court, magistrates sent the case to Carlisle Crown Court for a hearing on January 23, when the defendant will be formally invited to enter his plea. The defendant spoke only to confirm his personal details.