The jury in the trial of a taxi driver who is accused of killing a man with a punch will resume deliberations today.

Mazhar Ali, 26, had turned up to collect a fare from a house in Stockton on New Year's Eve, only to be told that nobody had called a cab, Teesside Crown Court heard.

Mr Ali was alleged to have punched Colin Arnold, 34, who fell, hitting his head on the pavement, and died before an ambulance crew arrived. He had been at a family celebration in Birgnall Road, Stockton.

Angry relatives pursued the taxi, banging on the sides, said Stephen Ashurst, prosecuting.

Mr Ali, formerly of Park Road, Stockton, now of Forest Gate, London, told the jury that Mr Arnold grabbed him and began shouting racist remarks.

Mr Ali denies themanslaughter of Mr Arnold, of Sadberge Road, Stockton.

The jury was sent home after less than an hour's deliberation yesterday.