A MARYPORT man accused of making threats to harm a woman with a knife and spitting at her during a period of alleged stalking is to stand trial next year.

Shaun Thomason, 34, appeared in front of a judge at Carlisle Crown Court today (Monday).

Thomason faces one charge which alleges stalking involving fear of violence.

The specifics of the charge allege that Thomason made repeated threats to damage property belonging both to the woman and her family members; that he made repeated threats to harm the woman; that he threw a pan and spat at her; that he made a threat to harm her with a knife; that he made derogatory posts referring to her on Facebook; that he repeatedly attended at her home address; and that he sent abusive messages.

Thomason is alleged to have done this during a seven-month period, between March 1 and October 3 this year.

During this morning’s crown court hearing, Thomason pleaded not guilty to the stalking charge when it was formally read to him by a clerk.

He is now due to stand trial in front of a jury at the crown court.

This is due to start in the week of June 16 next year and, it is estimated, will last around two days. A number of witnesses, including the woman named in the charge, are due to give evidence.

In the meantime, Thomason, of Curzon Street, Maryport, remains on conditional bail.