A Pentonville inmate appeared in court today charged with breaking out of the prison.

Matthew Baker allegedly broke out of the Caledonian Road jail on November 7 by removing an iron bar and wire netting from the window of a cell, Highbury Corner Magistrates Court heard.

The 28-year-old was apprehended by police in Ilford three days later.

Wearing a grey sweatshirt, Baker confirmed his name and date of birth as he appeared via video link from Belmarsh prison.

He used a crutch to walk and was helped to stand by officers when the hearing finished.

Chairman of the bench Petra Leseberg remanded him in custody to appear at Blackfriars Crown Court on Monday next week.

Reporting by Press Association