A MAN has appeared in court accused of aggravated burglary at a Chinese takeaway, while carrying a machete.

Adam Barrass is alleged to have been one of two men who entered the Kings Fayre, in New Kyo, near Stanley, after a window was smashed at the Mulberry Terrace restaurant, shortly after 2am on May 21.

During the break-in, about £1,000 worth of property was damaged and fridges were opened in an untidy search.

The defendant, 31, of Coronation Terrace, Stanley, denied aggravated burglary, but admitted possession of an article with a blade or point, at a plea hearing in June.

A trial date was provisionally set for the week of October 18.

But the case was back at court for a ‘mention’ and his counsel, Helen Towers, said a suitable basis of plea may be reached to avoid the need for a trial.

Judge Ray Singh agreed to adjourn until Tuesday in the hope the case can be resolved.

“It’s a very serious matter and we ought to make sure we get it right.”

He remanded Barrass, who appeared by video link from nearby Durham Prison, to remain in custody until Tuesday’s hearing.

 

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