A MAN has admitted trying to poison a teenager by giving him a drug used to treat insomnia.

John Young, 51, pleaded guilty to administering a poison or noxious substance with intent to injure a 16-year-old male.

Teesside Crown Court heard that a tablet containing the drug zopiclone was given to the victim, who had been drinking during the incident on April 23 last year.

Adjourning the case for reports Judge Peter Armstrong said he was minded to pass a suspended sentence on the defendant.

Young, whose address was given as St John's Crescent, Darlington, was bailed by the judge.

He will be sentenced at Durham Crown Court sometime in the week beginning April 24.