A MAN is to face trial on allegations that he threatened to kill a woman and harassed her over three weeks.

Gary Skerritt pleaded not guilty today to four charges when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court.

The 32-year-old, of Chesterton Court, Norton, near Stockton, was told that his two-day trial is expected in the first week in July.

Mr Skerritt denied putting a person in fear of violence by harassment, theft, making a threat to kill and damaging property.

It is said he assaulted the woman, held a carving knife to her throat, was abusive, smashed her mobile phone, grabbed her by the throat and repeatedly banged her head off the floor.

He is also alleged to have stolen money from the complainant, and threatened to stab her.

Mr Skerritt appeared in court via a live video-link from Holme House Prison in Stockton for a ten-minute hearing.