[A] MAN accused of raping and poisoning a woman has appeared at Carlisle Crown Court.
Paul James Edward Beattie, 51, faces a total of five charges which relate to alleged incidents on June 3.
Appearing in court via a video link from custody, Beattie pleaded not guilty to allegations of rape and administering a poison or noxious substance with intent.
Beattie also denied charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, damaging property and assault by beating. All are said to relate to the same female complainant.
During a 15-minute court hearing in front of Judge Peter Davies, it was stated that Beattie’s trial is likely to last at least two days.
This will be held before the end of this year on a date still to be confirmed.
In the meantime Beattie, of Howard Place, Carlisle, was remanded in custody by Judge Davies.
