A YOUNG man accused of grabbing a schoolgirl from behind as she walked home told a jury yesterday he was not involved in the incident at all.

Michael Dodd said he had been out drinking during the day and evening and had bumped into a female in York Road, Hartlepool, on his way home.

But he said there was no truth in the allegation that it was he who attacked the girl from behind in September last year.

Mr Dodd, 19, of Wolviston Road, Hartlepool, has denied kidnap and assault causing actual bodily harm.

The girl had previously told Teesside Crown Court she had been walking home when she heard footsteps behind her and she was grabbed around the face and waist. She kicked the man in the shins and he ran off.

Mr Dodd said he had gone to a party that evening before leaving to walk home. He said at the time of the alleged offence he had been receiving threats from people because of a false rumour circulating in the area.

In an interview with police Mr Dodd said he had been threatened by someone that they would have him put away. The jury is expected to retire to consider its verdict today.

The case continues