By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 13:26, Tuesday, 24 April 2012

The owner of a Langwathby motorsport team has appeared in court charged with threatening his wife.

Paul Bird

Paul David Bird, 45, of Stratheden, Langwathby, was charged with harassment with the threat of violence at Carlisle Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

He is manager of Kawasaki World Superbike Racing Team and managing director of family-owned firm Frank Bird Poultry in Langwathby.

Bird did not enter a plea and spoke only to confirm his name, age and address during the short hearing.

The charges relate to a series of text messages and a photo that he is accused of sending to his estranged wife Lindsey Bird.

Prosecutor Adrienne Harris said text messages had been sent to Mrs Bird threatening her friends and family.

Bird was granted bail, on the condition he does not contact Lindsey Bird except via solicitor.

Magistrates declined jurisdiction for the case, and Bird will appear at the court again on June 18, for committal to Carlisle Crown Court.

First published at 11:33, Tuesday, 24 April 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk