A MAN has denied carrying a machete on a train between Colchester and Witham.

Gloire Pongo, 25, appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court yesterday having been charged with possession of a blade in a public place.

But he denied the offence, alleged to have happened on January 20 on a train which left Colchester North Station.

Pongo, of Guildford Road, East London, was allegedly found with the weapon concealed in his waistband after rail staff reported concerns to police.

Pongo was searched at Witham Rail Station and arrested.

District Judge Timothy King said the case was too serious to be dealt with by a magistrates’ court and told Pongo to attend Chelmsford Crown Court on March 20.

He was granted unconditional bail.