Man denies bookmaker manslaughter

A 37-year-old man has appeared in court in County Durham to deny manslaughter after a betting shop manager died allegedly after a row over a bet.

Trevor Hall pleaded not guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.

Jeffrey Hilland, 52, of South Moor, Stanley, Co Durham, who managed Pagebet betting shop in Front Street, Pelton, died of a heart attack on 6 June.

Mr Hall, of Hilda Terrace, Chester-le-Street, was bailed until the trial on 5 January 2009.