A woman is to stand trial in the New Year accused of stabbing her husband in a domestic incident last month.

Kirsty Dempsey, of Emerson Way, Newton Aycliffe, appeared at a Durham Crown Court plea hearing today (Monday October 23) via video link from Low Newton Women’s Prison, on the outskirts of the city.

She is facing a single count of unlawfully and maliciously wounding husband Michael with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, an offence said to have taken place at the couple’s home, on September 22.

Her counsel, Tony Davis, said the charge could be put to his client, who pleaded not guilty.

Read more court stories from The Northern Echo, by clicking here

The case was adjourned for a trial of up to two days to start at the court on Wednesday February 28, 2024.

Mr Dempsey is alleged to have been stabbed to the left shoulder by the defendant, causing a wound which required hospital treatment, including stitches.

Stage dates for submission of evidence were agreed at today’s hearing, with the prosecution case, including transcript of Mr Dempsey’s 999 call and body-worn camera footage of officers attending the address, to be provided for the court and to the defence by November 10.

Read next:

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device with a subscription to The Northern Echo, by clicking here 

A completed signed defence statement must then be submitted by December 8.

Mr Davis said the defence would like to make a bail application to a judge in chambers, but the issue is finding a suitable address not to include the marital home.

Judge James Adkin adjourned the case for a pre-trial hearing at the court on December 15 and remanded the defendant, who turns 49 on Tuesday (October 24), to remain in custody, at the moment.