A BARROW-based former pupil of Underley Hall School has told jurors his time there was "superb", and described the owner as a "big friendly giant".

Four men are on trial at Carlisle Crown Court amid allegations that boys attending the Kirkby Lonsdale residential school were physically abused in the 1970s and 1980s.

Derrick Cooper denies six actual bodily harm assault charges and also two child cruelty allegations. These date back to a time when 77-year-old Cooper - who had previously been a deputy head at Ulverston's Stonecross School - was in joint and, latterly, sole charge at Underley Hall.

Three former staff members each deny one actual bodily harm assault allegation.

Today (5), ex-pupil Paul Sides was called to give evidence by Cooper's barrister, Peter Wright QC.

The 49-year-old Barrow maintenance engineer attended between the ages of 12 and 16, and left in 1984.

Asked to describe his Underley Hall experience, Mr Sides said: "Superb. I really didn't have any complaint about the place. I just enjoyed my time there."

Of the facilities, which included outdoor pursuits, he said: "Coming from Barrow, from comprehensive schools, it was a cut above."

He recalled no difficulties or problems with staff, nor was he aware fellow pupils had any.

Mr Wright asked Mr Sides whether he saw any form of violence by employees towards boys, or any youngsters humiliated.

"No. the staff were great," he replied. "The kids could be a bit of a handful but the staff were fantastic. I have got nothing but praise for them."

Six-foot-plus Cooper was "massive", Mr Sides recalled. "A big friendly giant. That is how I remember him."

Asked how Cooper behaved, Mr Sides told jurors: "Great. No problems at all."

And when asked whether anyone spoke unfavourably about Cooper, of Hillberry Green, Douglas, Isle of Man, he added: "It wasn't the man he was - is."

The trial, now in its sixth week, continues.