A FATHER and daughter went on trial yesterday accused of being involved in a street disturbance.

Ian Colbeck and his 17-year-old daughter, Diane, are alleged to have been among a group of people who gathered in Bay Tree Road, Darlington, in April.

Mr Colbeck, 38, is alleged to have struck Stephen Boyes on the head several times.

Mr Boyes suffered a cut on the head which needed hospital treatment.

Yesterday, Nigel Wray, prosecuting, told a jury at Teesside Crown Court that Mr Colbeck grabbed Mr Boyes, and as they fell against a wall the group surrounded them and were kicking and punching.

Mr Colbeck and Miss Colbeck, both of Laburnum Road, Darlington, are charged with affray. They have both denied the charge. Mr Colbeck has also denied wounding.

Mr Wray told the court Mr Boyes had gone to a nearby shop. On the way, he met Miss Colbeck, who started shouting and swearing at him. He pushed her away.

On his way home, he called at his parents' home.

When he left there was a group waiting outside, with Mr Colbeck at the front, said Mr Wray.

When Mr Colbeck was interviewed by police, he said Mr Boyes had punched him and punches were exchanged between them. But he said he was more or less at the bottom of the scrum.

Miss Colbeck told police Mr Boyes had earlier grabbed her by the neck and slapped her. The case continues.