Comedian, 50, appeared via video link from US over charges of rape and sexual assault in relation to two women

Russell Brand has appeared in a UK court via video link from the US charged with two further sexual offences, including rape.

The 50-year-old comedian was charged in December with one count of rape and one count of sexual assault in relation to two women. The two alleged offences took place in 2009.

Brand previously denied two counts of rape, one count of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault in relation to alleged offences between 1999 and 2005, involving four women.

During a brief hearing in relation to the fresh charges on Tuesday afternoon, Brand appeared at Westminster magistrates court via video link from Florida.