A MAN went on trial yesterday accused of indecently assaulting a girl.

Richard Patterson, 34, of Conyers Crescent, Horden, near Peterlee, appeared before Teesside Crown Court charged with indecent assault. He has denied the charge.

Mr Patterson told the jury the girl had been upset at some cliffs in east Durham, and he had put an arm around her to comfort her, but he said there was nothing which the girl could have misinterpreted.

The prosecution alleges Mr Patterson cuddled the girl, tried to kiss her and put his hand on the top of her bottom.

The case continues