A teacher accused of slapping a pupil has had his case adjourned for a second pre-trial review.
District Judge Michael Wood last month abandoned the trial of science teacher Ron Harbottle following legal arguments at Consett magistrates' court. He ordered a retrial.
Mr Harbottle, 56, of Killingworth, who works at a school in Chester-le-Street, appeared at the court again on Tuesday and will next appear on Tuesday, June 14.
He is accused of assaulting a 12-year-old boy by slapping his face on November 3, 2003.
Mr Harbottle, who is still working at the school, denies the charge. He was granted unconditional bail.
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