A MAN accused of assaulting a couple during a “parking rage” incident in Chard when they had left their car on zig-zag lines has been ordered to stand trial next month.

William David Lewsey allegedly slammed a car door, trapping the fingers of the female and was then said to have been involved in a struggle with her husband.

The 56-year-old, of Western Way, Winsham, appeared in the dock before Somerset Magistrates, at Yeovil.

He pleaded not guilty that on March 1 he assaulted Steven Gary Westwood by beating him.

He also denied that he assaulted Jennifer Westwood by beating her during the same incident.

Prosecutor Christine Hart said that Mr Westwood parked his car on zig-zag lines by a crossing to pick up his wife from work when a verbal altercation occurred between him and Lewsey.

The defendant allegedly slammed the car door shut, causing Mrs Westwood to trap her fingers and was then said to have grabbed hold of Mr Westwood and was involved in a struggle before he let go.

The magistrates heard Lewsey claimed the incident involving the car door had been an accident and said Mr Westwood had been the one who assaulted him.

The case was adjourned until June 20 and Lewsey was released on unconditional bail.