A TEENAGE motorcyclist who ran over a dog, which later had to be put down, was fined £200 by a court yesterday.

Anthony Mark Yates, of Jura Drive, Darlington, admitted careless driving, failing to stop after an accident or report the accident, and driving without a valid licence, insurance, registration plate or helmet.

The 19-year-old hit Flame, a five-year-old Irish setter and Crufts contestant, while riding his bike in Green Lane, Whinfield, Darlington, in May, the court heard.

Jacqueline Gibson, prosecuting, said: "Kevin Swainston was walking his five show dogs around the park on May 26.

"The defendant, who was riding the motorbike, tried to avoid the dogs but he impacted with one dog, running her over.

"He lost control of the bike, careered into the bushes and went flying into the handlebars."

Yates went to Darlington police station later to say he had been involved in the incident.

"He said Mr Swainston had got hold of him and started shouting at him, so he apologised," said Ms Gibson

Kevin Ross, representing Yates, said: "The dogs were all off the lead, they were all over the path, Mr Yates tried to avoid them but he could not.

"He injured himself and got scratches to the face and shock, and he spent the next day off work and in bed.

"Mr Yates went up to the owner's house later and spoke to the daughter, but she was very upset so he thought it was best to leave.

"The next day he went to the police station. He keeps dogs himself and was very distressed by this. There is no question at all of him not paying the vet's bills.

"He went back to the owners later with flowers and chocolates and a card to say sorry. It was very unlucky for him that it came to this."

In addition to the fine,Yates was ordered to pay £35 costs and his licence was endorsed with six penalty points.

The dog, which suffered severe internal injuries, a chipped spine and a broken ankle, had to be destroyed.