A youth has denied a charge of attempted murder arising from a hammer assault on another teenager who was said to have suffered potentially life-changing injuries in the attack

But the 17-year-old accused has now admitted a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, arising from the incident which took place in the living room of a house in County Durham, on June 17.

The teenage defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons due to his age, was making his second appearance at Durham Crown Court in the case.

No pleas were submitted at his first hearing, on August 4, when a provisional trial date was set for Teesside Crown Court on January 30, 2024.

Following his pleas tendered at his latest appearance, today (Tuesday November 7,) the court heard the Crown is likely to accept them, therefore negating the need for a jury trial in January.

But a trial of issue, or Newton hearing, may be staged without a jury, but before Judge James Adkin, at Durham Crown Court, as the defendant’s guilty plea was submitted on the basis that he only delivered one blow with the hammer.

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The prosecution is to seek an updated medical report on the victim before a decision is taken on whether or not there is a need for a Newton hearing.

Judge Adkin adjourned the case until December 20, when the trial of issue will take place if there is still a disagreement as to the number of hammer blows wielded by the defendant.

His existing bail conditions were extended until the scheduled hearing on December 20.