A MAN has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with the attempted rape of a “working girl” in Dickson Street on Friday night.

Phillip Shaw, 33, of Parsonage Court, Sandown, Isle of Wight, is also charged with threatening a male friend of the woman with a knife.

The friend, who was said to be looking after the sex worker, went to her assistance after she was allegedly dragged down a back alley.

Shaw was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court where he will appear on November 11.