THE jury at a trial of a pensioner accused of indecently assaulting a young girl was unable to reach a decision after hours of deliberation.

Robert Bolton of Duke Street, Askam, stood trial accused of two counts indecently assault on a girl aged under 14.

However, after eight hours and 27 minutes deliberation the jury were unable to reach a verdict.

Over four days at Barrow Crown Court the jury heard evidence alleging Bolton had assaulted a young girl on two occasions between January 1999 and January 2004.

On Monday the complainant appeared by videolink to give evidence to the court, alleging Bolton had given her sherry before assaulting her.

Bolton, 78, strongly denied the accusations throughout the trial when questioned by the prosecution and defence.

Speaking to the jury, Her Honour Judge Jacqueline Beech said: "In these circumstances you have had more than enough time and are clearly not in the position to bring back a majority verdict."

The prosecution requested seven days to consult with the complainant to decide if they wanted to proceed with a retrial.

Judge Beech granted this, adjourning the case to Preston Crown Court on Friday January 20 at 10.30am.

Bolton is not required to attend the hearing in Preston and will remain on bail.