A Watford man been charged with a string of offences after a car was stolen in London Colney.

James Heaney, of Boundary Way, appeared at Hatfield Remand Court today (October 15), charged with robbery, threats with a bladed article, dangerous driving, six attempted robberies, two counts of criminal damages, assault by beating and affray.

At around 5.40pm on August 20, the a Ford Mondeo was stolen from Telford Road, London Colney and driven to the A405 North Orbital Road, just before the M1, where it was abandoned.

A man got out of the vehicle and allegedly threatened several drivers before escaping into the undergrowth once police arrived.

A police helicopter search was launched, which included resources from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Dog Unit.

Heaney, 27, will next appear at St Albans Crown Court on November 12.