It is believed Emily Maitlis, who presents the BBC's London regional news programme, called in police after six years of harassment.

Canadian-born Miss Maitlis became the programme's evening anchorwoman when it relaunched as BBC LDN in October 2001.

Student Edward Vines, 32, of Milson Road, W14, was remanded in custody until 18 July when he appeared at West London Magistrates Court last week.

He was charged with breaching section 2 of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

BBC London declined to comment on the case.