THE case of a former community warden accused of indecently assaulting a woman has been delayed.

Derek Mitchell, 58, will have tests with a medical specialist before he stands trial later this year.

Mr Mitchell, of Ingham Grove, Hartlepool, has been receiving treatment for stomach cancer since last March.

But at a hearing at Teesside Crown Court yesterday, prosecutors said they had reviewed the case and wanted it to go ahead despite his illness.

Mr Mitchell's barrister, Martina Connelly, said: "He has had very serious surgery.

"It was hoped, in light of the problems that are clearly there, the Crown would consider reviewing this matter."

Judge Michael Taylor ordered that the medical evidence should be prepared at least four weeks before the expected trial.

After his arrest, Mr Mitchell, who is married with two children, said he was innocent and that he would appeal against the decision by Hartlepool Borough Council to dismiss him from his job.

Mr Mitchell worked for the council as a community warden at the time of the alleged attack in July 2003.