A MAN accused of the manslaughter of a foundry worker told a jury yesterday that he could not remember the events leading up to the death.

Michael Reeves, 25, of Millfield, Sunderland, is standing trial at Teesside Crown Court accused of the manslaughter of Michael Burrup, at Stanhope, County Durham, on June 9, last year.

The prosecution alleges Mr Burrup, 36, of Stanhope, died after being assaulted by Mr Reeves.

Christopher Knox, prosecuting, previously told the jury it was the Crown's case Mr Reeves assaulted the foundry worker on a riverside path with a 40ft drop into a river on one side.

The prosecution claims it was the assault which led to both men falling 40ft into the river. Mr Burrup died as a result of drowning, although he had other injuries, the court was told.

Mr Reeves told the jury he was in Stanhope with friends, staying at a caravan park, and had been drinking in a pub that evening. He said he could not remember anything between leaving the pub and waking up in hospital.

He said he had not known of the path which he had ended up on with Mr Burrup.

The jury was told Mr Reeves had no previous convictions.

The case continues.