The trial of a County Durham couple accused of causing serious injuries to a child is nearing a conclusion as the jury retires to consider their verdicts.

Alex and Gemma Richardson were arrested after multiple injuries that the child had suffered were discovered when they were taken to hospital.

Initially the child was being treated for a suspected broken leg but medics became concerned about their welfare when they were carrying out checks on them, Teesside Crown Court heard.

It was discovered that the child had suffered a fractured skull, a broken collar bone, a spinal injury, and a broken arm before they were treated for a broken leg at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

The 31-year-old Mrs Richardson categorically denied causing the injuries or knowing they had been inflicted by her husband telling the jury she was ‘absolutely not’ responsible for them.

While her 29-year-old husband, Alex, also vehemently denied being responsible for deliberately causing the injuries.

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Earlier in the trial, the jury heard from the medical expert who confirmed that the leg fracture was consistent with a ‘twisting motion’ and not an impact.

The pair, from Westwood View, Sacriston, County Durham, are both charged with having caused or allowed a child to suffer serious physical harm.

Alex Richardson is also charged with a section 18 offence - unlawfully and maliciously caused grievous bodily harm to a child with intent to do them grievous bodily harm.

They deny all charges and the trial continues.