A FATHER-of-seven accused of hiring a hitman to kill a business rival has taken the stand to deny the charge.
Newcastle Crown Court heard how William "Billy Dad" Anderson was arrested along with his son and brother after a shooting in Hetton-le-Hole, Wearside.
But the court heard that the car dealer hardly knew the gunman, Arthur Pattinson.
He said he first saw "Arty" at the beginning of last year at his business premises, S and C Garage.
When asked by his barrister, Tony Hawks, if he knew Arthur Pattinson socially, William Anderon snr replied: "No."
William "Ike" Anderson, of High Street, Easington Lane, has admitted two charges of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence relating to threats made to Stanley Creswell and his friends before the shooting.
He denies conspiracy to harass and conspiracy to murder.
Stanley Anderson, of North View, Easington Lane, Thomas Anderson, of Borrowdale Street, Hetton-le- Hole, and William Anderson, of High Street, Easington Lane, deny conspiracy to harass and conspiracy to murder.
Arthur Pattinson, 42, of Stridingedge, Washington, Wearside, denies conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to harass.
The trial continues.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article