A MAN accused of leading a revenge attack said he was having a meal with his family at the time of the incident, a court heard.

Durham Crown Court was told that the 23-year-old victim was attacked in the Framwellgate Moor area of the city on the afternoon of Saturday, January 15 last year.

Brian Russell, prosecuting, said two cars pulled alongside and six men got out, knocking him to the ground, where he suffered a number of blows.

He suffered cuts and bruises, plus two deep lacerations to the scalp.

The victim staggered to a relative's house and when asked who was responsible, he was only able to name Darren Johnstone.

He received hospital treatment and when police took up the inquiry, he gave them the same name.

Mr Russell said he claimed that as he lay on the ground as he was being attacked, he saw Mr Johnstone with a knuckle-duster.

When arrested 13 days later, Mr Johnstone, a pub doorman at the time, said he was not present and claimed he was having a late lunch with his family and girlfriend.

Mr Russell said a cause for the assault may have been alleged abuse suffered by the girlfriend from the victim, the previous week.

Mr Johnstone, of Anvil Court, Pity Me, Durham, who has no convictions, denies wounding with intent.

The jury is expected to retire to consider its verdict today.