A WOMAN has appeared before a Carlisle court to face an allegation of engaging in sexual activity with a schoolboy.

Angela Gatt, 37, is accused of committing the offence against a 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, on June 21.

Prosecutors say the alleged offence happened in north Cumbria but the precise location cannot be revealed, also for legal reasons.

During a brief hearing at the city’s magistrates court, Gatt, represented by defence solicitor Sara Budniak, entered no plea.

The defendant – wearing a calf length tweed coat and blue jeans – spoke only to confirm her name and to confirm that she understood the charge.

District Judge Gerald Chalk told her: “Miss Gatt, I am formally sending you to appear before the crown court and you will make your first appearance on April 18 and should be there at 9.45am.”

The judge said he was willing to grant Gatt, from Dalrymple, Ayr, bail on condition that she makes no attempt to contact her alleged victim, whether by phone, letter, or any digital means, or any other prosecution witness.