A 27-year-old man from Shifnal appeared before magistrates on Saturday morning to face a string of serious allegations, including multiple counts of rape and coercive control.

Henry Stokes, of Poplar Street, was brought before Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Saturday 17 January following an investigation by West Mercia Police. During the brief hearing, the court heard the full extent of the charges laid against him, which include two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

In addition to the sexual offence charges, Mr Stokes faces allegations of actual bodily harm and voyeurism. He has also been charged with one count of coercive and controlling behaviour, a charge that relates to a pattern of acts designed to make a person subordinate or dependent through isolation, regulation, or exploitation.

The defendant spoke only to confirm his name and address before the bench. Legal representatives provided a brief outline of the case, though no pleas were formally entered during the initial appearance.

Mr Stokes was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear next at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Monday, 16 February for a plea and trial preparation hearing.