A COUPLE are to face trial for alleged cruelty to seven dogs in their possession.
Gavin Edward Armstrong and Joanne Crane are facing a single count of causing unnecessary suffering to the dogs by failing to provide them with an adequate, nutritious and wholesome diet, including fresh drinking water.
The allegations involve a Staffordshire terrier, Zara, and six puppies, on dates between August 24 and September 25 last year.
Mr Armstrong, 28, and 22-year-old Miss Crane, both of Marine Crescent, Blackhall, denied the charge at a short hearing at North Durham Magistrates' Court.
The case was adjourned and the couple were bailed to return for a pre-trial review at which the trial date will be set, on April 13
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