A MAN has been ordered to stand trial before Somerset magistrates after denying an allegation of assault in Chard.

Steven Barnes, 38, of Fawcus Place, denied assaulting Mark Smith by beating him during the incident at Combe Street on December 12.

However, he admitted a further offence of damaging a Seat Alambra belonging to Lisa Carter on the same date.

When a review of the case was conducted, magistrates were told the defendant disputed the alleged assault had taken place at all.

Both matters were adjourned for a trial to take place before the court at Yeovil on April 4. Barnes was released on unconditional bail.