A FATHER and son appeared in court yesterday charged with beating a man in a hospital car park.
Christopher Simon Keith, 20, of West Crescent, Darlington, admitted causing fear or provocation of violence when he appeared at Darlington Magistrates' Court.
His father, Simon Keith, 44, also of West Crescent, pleaded not guilty to the same charge.
Christopher Keith admitted punching and shoving a man he thought was "prowling" around his house.
"He clearly hadn't been prowling round the garage - he had been in the hospital," said Paul Hunter, prosecuting.
The victim did not press charges, meaning the men were charged with causing fear or provocation of violence, rather than assault.
Christopher Keith, while pleading guilty, denied kicking the man. A hearing will be held at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court on Monday, December 17, to determine the facts of the case.
Simon Keith will also face trial on the same date, also at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court.
Both men were released on unconditional bail
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