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Leeds sheep costume fire: Man in court UPDATED
A student had to spend a month in hospital after allegedly being set alight while dressed in a sheep costume.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Weather for Leeds
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 1 C to 6 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: West
