A YOUNG woman who admits throwing ammonia into a man’s face claims she thought it would cause no more than irritation to the victim.

But, Durham Crown Court heard the injured man suffered burns to both eyes, plus some initial loss of vision.

Ellie-Rose Midgely denied wounding with intent, but admitted the lesser offence of unlawful wounding, arising from the incident in Front Street, Consett, in the early hours of June 9, 2018.

Her partner, Jordan Craggs, put in a straight not guilty plea to the charge of wounding with intent.

Both, however, admitted possessing an offensive weapon, the ammonia bottle.

Robert Mochrie, for Midgely, told the court: “She accepts she used ammonia, as alleged, but did not believe or appreciate that substance would cause anything over and above irritation.”

Michael Hodson, for Craggs, said: “He denies throwing the liquid which caused the injury. He threw liquid causing no injury.”

Jonathan Walker, prosecuting, said updated medical statements would be sought to see what progress has been made by the victim.

The case was adjourned for trial, on July 16, and Judge Christopher Prince granted bail to Craggs, 24, to an address in Finsmere Place, Blakelaw, Newcastle, and Midgely, 20, to Tyne Street, Chopwell, both with 7pm to 7am electronically-monitored home curfews.