A WATER company is prosecuting the UK's largest ice cream manufacturer in a battle over alleged pollution.

But Richmond Ice Cream, based at Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire, has claimed its expansion plans are under threat because of a lack of investment from Yorkshire Water.

Peter Pickthall, Richmond Ice Cream's director of human resources, appeared at Northallerton Magistrates' Court yesterday to represent the firm.

He pleaded not guilty to ten offences, which date from April to September last year.

The case was adjourned until March 1, when a date for a trial will be set.

Bosses are hoping to expand, but say their plans are under threat because of Yorkshire Water.

James Lambert, chief executive, said: "We have created more than 400 jobs since 1988. We plan to increase output - but this is being put at risk by Yorkshire Water."

Yorkshire Water says it has invested more than £2.5m in Leeming Bar treatment works in the past 15 years, including £200,000 last year to improve treatment processes.

A spokesman said: "In order for us to treat more waste from Richmond Ice Cream, we will have to put in additional treatment processes to prevent potential pollution incidents, which could damage the environment.

"Because it is only being done to treat the waste from Richmond Ice Cream, we are asking them to make a financial contribution."