A FORMER teacher denied possessing cocaine with intent to supply the class A drug to others, during a short court hearing today.

As a result of his plea Ian Ashby will stand trial on the allegation at Durham Crown Court, in May.

Mr Ashby was charged after around one ounce of cocaine along with 22 grams of caffeine mixing agent were recovered by police from a bag in his Mercedes car, at the Sniperley park and ride site, on the outskirts of Durham on May 16 last year.

Mr Ashby was, at the time, an IT and business studies teacher at Stanley School of Technology in County Durham, but has since resigned following prolonged absence through ill health.

Police have stressed that the charge does not relate to supplying or intending to supply the drug to any pupils.

The case was adjourned by Judge Christopher Prince, who bailed 30-year-old Mr Ashby, of Benfieldside Way, Shotley Bridge, to return for his trial.

It will start at the court on a date to be confirmed in the week of May 10.