THE manager of Settle Swimming Pool appeared in Court this week charged with rape and making threats to kill.

The offences are alleged to have happened on Tuesday.

Jonathan Harkin, 39, of Stanley Street, Carnforth, appeared before Lancaster Magistrates Court yesterday (Thursday) when he was remanded in custody for seven days.

Police from Lancashire and North Yorkshire arrested Harkin as he left the swimming pool on Tuesday afternoon after a complaint was made to police at Carnforth.

The operation also involved armed officers.

Nearby Settle Middle School was asked to bring pupils in from the games field and keep them in the school hall while the arrest took place.

Headteacher James Mansley praised the police for their actions.

"It ended up there was nothing to worry about, but on the other hand it is nice to know that the children's safety was paramount and they were looked after.

"The children went home as normal at 3.15pm. I am pleased that the police had our interests at heart. School security is in everybody's mind."

*The swimming pool is open as usual.

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