An intruder who was found curled up asleep on the bedroom floor of someone else's house denies he entered the property intending to steal.

Liam Blakey appeared at Durham Crown Court on a burglary charge arising from his arrest over an alleged break-in at a residential address in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, on Wednesday, June 26.

The charge alleges that he entered a dwelling, in Cheviot Walk, Coundon, as a trespasser with intent to steal therein.

Forty-two-year-old Blakey, of Rodney Walk, Coundon, pleaded not guilty.

(Image: The Northern Echo)

Addressing defence counsel Calum McNicholas, Recorder Edward Legard queried what the issue is in relation to the allegation.

“The complainant comes back to discover him in a foetal position on the floor of a child’s upstairs bedroom.

“So, what is the defendant’s position, Mr McNicholas?”

In response, Mr McNicholas said: “The issue is, was he a trespasser and did he have the requisite intent to steal?

(Image: The Northern Echo)

See more court stories from The Northern Echo, by clicking here

Don't miss out on the latest news and stories. Subscribe to The Northern Echo now for £4 for four months, by clicking here

“He’s been advised about credit for plea and the evidence against him and his need to attend trial.”

All parties agreed on a trial date, which was fixed to take place at the court, starting on Wednesday, December 4.

The defendant, who is detained at HMP Doncaster, was remanded to remain in custody pending the trial.