A MAN who spent almost seven hours on the roof of the old swimming baths in Flag Lane last week has been charged with affray and seven counts of criminal damage.

The 25-year-old from Crewe will appear at Chester Crown Court in May, after entering no plea at magistrates’ court last week.

Police were called to the address last Wednesday, April 19, to find a 25-year-old man on the roof and throwing debris into the road below.

Following lengthy negotiations, the man came down shortly before 2pm and was assessed by paramedics.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “A 25-year-old man from Crewe has been charged with affray and seven counts of criminal damage following an incident at the former swimming baths in Crewe.

“At 7.12am on Wednesday, April 19, police were called to Flag Lane in Crewe following reports of concern for safety.

“A man was on the roof of the former swimming baths in an agitated state and was throwing items off the roof.

“Police negotiators attended and the man came down shortly before 2pm.”

Alton Street, Walthall Street and Flag Lane were closed due to the debris being thrown from the building. Wistaston Road was also affected, with all roads reopening around 4.45pm on April 19.

The man, who lives in Crewe, appeared at South and East Cheshire magistrates’ court on April 21. After entering no plea, he will face a crown court jury in on May 19. He has been remanded in custody until that date.