A PRISON dog handler has appeared in court charged over the death of a one-year-old dog.

Michael Burrows, 49, of Longmead Drive, Sidcup, allegedly locked the dog inside a vehicle during a hot day, on August 1 this year.

The Springer Spaniel called Marty is alleged to have died as a result of the heat in the vehicle, parked outside high security Belmarsh Prison in south east London.

Burrows pleaded not guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the animal and a further charge of not taking the necessary steps to ensure its safety.

He appeared on bail before District Judge Lynch at Greenwich Magistrates' Court, who adjourned the case for trial at Woolwich Crown Court, next March.

from Bexley Extra