A man accused of blackmail, assault and theft told police his alleged victim’s complaints were all “poppycock”.

When interviewed, 30-year-old Barrie Colin Lee responded to a string of allegations by branding his accuser a “liar”.

Lee went on trial at Carlisle Crown Court this week after pleading not guilty to charges of blackmail and assault following alleged incidents on June 10.

Lee also denies two counts of theft and putting a person in fear of violence by harassment in respect of alleged criminal conduct between April 30 and June 10.

Jurors heard Lee was arrested on June 10 after an allegation that he had grabbed a man and pushed him into a table.

In interview he said the injuries had been caused by the time he arrived on the scene. He said: “I rang the ambulance.”

Lee alleged the man had committed fraud against and stolen from him, and that he had tackled him over it.

“He denied it. Spat his dummy out. It is why he has made up this poppycock,” said Lee, who is accused by the alleged victim of “absolutely terrifying” behaviour.

Lee, of Gable Avenue, Cockermouth, was interviewed again. By then it was alleged he had made unwarranted demands of cash with menaces.

He denied blackmail, telling police he had only taken money when it was owed to him. The trial continues.