A CAR dealer has pleaded guilty to two counts of false trade description.

Barry Appleby, trading as Premier People Carriers, in Brunswick Street, Stockton entered a plea of guilty on Tuesday, the second day of his trial, having originally pleaded not guilty.

Teesside Crown Court heard how Mr Appleby admitted he falsely described a Renault Espace car as having a full service history and failed to tell the buyer that the mileage reading of 83,000 was wrong.

An investigation by Stockton trading standards officers showed the vehicle had travelled at least 111,000 miles when it was sold.

Speaking after the case, David Kitching, manager of trading standards, in Stockton, said: "This was a thorough and detailed investigation by my officers."

Sentencing was adjourned for reports.