A MAN is to stand trial next year accused of aggravated burglary at the home of someone he claims was a drug dealer.

Anthony Whittaker is alleged to have stolen a pouch of tobacco and a Sky tv remote control after breaking into the property in Bishop Auckland while carrying a knife, on August 11 this year.

The 37-year-old defendant, said to be of ‘no fixed abode’, but previously living in Bishop Auckland, claims he had been to that house earlier in the day to buy cannabis, but went back complaining the purchased substance was not of sufficient quality.

He denies threatening anyone or brandishing any bladed item in the latter exchange, but claims he left after money was thrown in his direction.

Having pleaded not guilty to the charge of aggravated burglary, appearing via video link to Durham Crown Court from the city’s nearby prison, he was remanded to remain in custody until the trial, estimated to last two days, on February 19, next year.