A MAN appeared in court yesterday accused of endangering a road user and resisting arrest after a police officer was allegedly caught in the crossfire of a water fight.

Road worker Gary Parker was squirted with CS spray and arrested after a police officer was allegedly hit with water from a high-powered water pistol through the window of his marked van.

The 26-year-old had been messing about with friends outside his parents' Bonny Moor Hen pub, in Stanhope, County Durham, on August 3 when the incident occurred.

Mr Parker, of Bondisle Way, Stanhope, pleaded not guilty to resisting arrest and a public order charge was withdrawn.

Mr Parker now faces an alternative charge of intentionally and unlawfully interfering with a motor vehicle which a reasonable person would believe to be dangerous. He also denied this offence.

David Crook, prosecuting, said it was a serious matter that could have had potentially disastrous consequences.

Magistrates at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court accepted jurisdiction after hearing that causing danger to a road user was an offence that could be dealt with at magistrates or crown court.

Mr Parker was released on unconditional bail and the case was adjourned until September 24 for a pre-trial review.