A MAN has appeared in court charged with setting fire to a Swindon hotel room.

Clive John Gonsalves allegedly attempted to set bedroom furniture and hotel room furnishings alight at the Great Western Hotel on Station Road on April 7.

The alleged incident occurred just one day before his 36th birthday, and he was subsequently charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.

The 36-year-old was due to enter a plea at Swindon Crown Court on Friday (May 13), but when he tuned into the hearing via video link from Winchester prison, he asked the clerk to be represented by the duty solicitor.

The duty solicitor scheme does not run in the Crown Court.

When Judge Keith Cutler came into court, he said he wanted to adjourn the case for the defendant to get representation.

“It is a serious matter and you need to be properly advised,” Judge Cutler said.

“I think this is a sort of case whereby I have to put it back. In three weeks’ time, Mr Gonsalves should attend Swindon court in person, then if he hasn’t got any representation, we may be able to see if something can be done.”

He was remanded in custody.