Jason Whatley, 38, today appeared in court in relation to the incident at a Leeds pub last October.

Leeds Magistrates Court heard two other people were injured in the incident at the Headingley Taps pub, Headingley, on October 17.

* Click here to watch latest YEP news and sport video reports.

The student, thought to be a 19-year-old studying at the University of Leeds, had to spend almost a month at the specialist burns unit at Pinderfields hospital following the incident.

* Click here for latest YEP news and sport picture slideshows.

The court heard how he was turned into a "ball of flames".

The two other people were injured after bumping into him in the busy pub.

* Click here for latest YEP sport headlines.

Locals went to their rescue, trying to put out the flames as they rolled on the floor.

Bar staff then used fire extinguishers to put out the fires.

They were later recommended for a commendation for their quick-thinking actions.

It is understood the student had to undergo a skin graft operation following the incident.

Whatley, of Portsmouth, is charged with arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

He also faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm and two charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Appearing at court, he was dressed smartly in a grey suit and spoke only to confirm his name and address.

Magistrates said the case was so serious it had to be referred to Leeds Crown Court.

Whatley was granted unconditional bail to appear on Tuesday, February 16.