TWO serving police officers appeared in court yesterday accused of giving false statements which led to a man being charged after a protest march.

Greater Manchester Police officers Insp Robert Cantrell and PC Alan Glover appeared at York Magistrates Court charged with perverting the course of justice.

They are accused of falsely providing evidence which resulted in a man being charged with a public order offence after English Defence League and Unite Against Fascism demonstrations in Bolton in March, 2010.

Cantrell, aged 39, and Glover, aged 31, both dressed in suits, spoke only to give their names and dates of birth.

The case was sent to York Crown Court where the defendants will appear on September 17.