A DOG accused of being dangerously out of control when it got involved in a fight with a mongrel was described yesterday as being "as good as gold".

Brian Wright, 31, is facing charges under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Mr Wright took his father's alsatian, Ricky, for a late night walk near his home last November.

The dog was not wearing a lead, leaving Mr Wright powerless to control him after it attacked, Newcastle Crown Court was told.

But the father-of-one told the court yesterday how Ricky was wearing a harness, as it always did when it was outside.

He was walking the dog when it became involved in a fight with a black mongrel dog, being walked by William Topping along The High Road, South Shields. Mr Topping ended up on all fours in a bid to try to protect his pet and was bitten in the commotion.

Mr Wright told the court how he asked Mr Topping if he was injured after the attack. But he received no reply so he finished his walk, assuming he was unhurt.

When asked by Judge Roger Thomas to describe Ricky, who Mr Wright said had never bitten anyone before, he said: "He is as good as gold. He is inquisitive and loves to be out. He loves playing, and loves playing with the bairns.

"He is no angel, but he is not capable of doing anyone any harm."

Mr Wright, of The High Road, South Shields, denies being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control in a public place.

The trial continues.