A SCOUT leader has told a jury how allegations of sexual assault against boys which led to his suspension had left him "sickened".

Christopher Blakeborough said it was "surreal" when he was arrested at his Darlington home by police investigating the claims.

The 27-year-old - who was also a special police constable at the time - gave evidence yesterday (Thursday, October 23) on the fourth day of his trial.

He told the jury of eight women and four men at Teesside Crown Court that he does not have a sexual interest in young boys.

Mr Blakeborough, who also staged school discos, said he heard "whispers" about his alleged conduct within his community in 2011.

It is said he spanked one boy on a camping trip, and touched another in a church hall cupboard when taking him for a new jumper.

The prosecution says he placed a tape measure against the boy’s bare skin, and also told him to pull his trousers and pants down.

Mr Blakeborough told the jury that neither event happened, and how he was shocked when he heard of the claims from the police.

He had been questioned on an earlier occasion, but had been told there would be no further action, the court heard yesterday.

"I thought that was that sorted out," said Mr Blakeborough, who had been associated with the organisation from the age of six.

During a series of questions from his barrister, Joanne Kidd, he said since his suspension three years ago, he has not returned.

Miss Kidd asked him: "Do you have any sexual interest in little boys?" Mr Blakeborough replied: "No, not at all."

He was asked: "When you were arrested, and your home was searched, and items were seized, how did that make you feel?"

The defendant, who denies two sexual assault charges, answered: "You can imagine the police turning up at the house...

"It's hard to describe, really. It was a bit surreal. When I was actually told why, I was sickened, I suppose."

During his time in the witness box, Mr Blakeborough, of Abbey Road, disputed the evidence of a number of prosecution witnesses.

He told the jury that he had never made a tearful apology to a father, and had not been confronted by another boy's mother.

He admitted giving youngsters "wedgies" on a camping trip, but said it was part of a "rough and tumble" game not some sort of initiation ceremony. Other children did them to one another, too, he said.

The jury is expected to retire today to consider its verdict once Judge Peter Bowers has finished his summing up of the case.