A TEENAGER told a court yesterday how a man dragged her into his home and groped her while she was out collecting money.

The girl, who cannot be named, called to Phillip Hunter's home on June 29 to collect a weekly payment from him.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how Hunter, 47, is alleged to have dragged her into his house before trying to kiss and touch her, while his son played on his computer upstairs.

The 15-year-old said: "He grabbed my arm and pulled me in to his house. His hands were all over me, touching my bottom. He was kissing my neck and trying to kiss me properly with his tongue.

"He jumped out in front of me and shut the door, but I managed to get the door open and get out."

Hunter told police he had invited the girl in because he was watching the Holland v Italy football match on TV.

He said he did not want to miss any of the match while he was waiting for his change.

He admitted leading her in by the hand but said he did not use force and that nothing untoward happened once inside the house.

Hunter, of Holylake Square, Hylton Lane, Sunderland, denies indecent assault. The case continues.