TWO women have denied attempting to cause serious harm to a man who was said to be in the throes of trying to steal money from an elderly victim.

Tanya McDonough and Ruth Taylor are accused of using excessive force and violence in trying to prevent the theft.

Durham Crown Court heard that the women are alleged to have variously used a paving stone, a hammer and a knife in the attack, on Thursday December 4.

Appearing on screen at a plea hearing at the court, via video link from Low Newton Women’s Prison, Durham, the pair both denied a charge of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

Simon Reevell, prosecuting, said the reviewing lawyer in the case is to consider if alternative charges may be preferred by the Crown.

Judge Christopher Prince adjourned the hearing for the prosecution to carry out the review.

He remanded 44-year-old Ms McDonough, of Prinn Place, Sunniside, near Gateshead, and Ms Taylor, 34, of Rodwell Street, Trimdon Station, County Durham, back into custody, until Friday March 13.