A 22-year-old Lydney man is to stand trial in the New Year on a charge of assaulting a woman in Gloucester by beating her.

Luke Evans, of St Swithins Road, Oldcroft, has pleaded not guilty to assaulting the woman on 7th January this year – but has admitted criminally damaging her mobile phone and a pram.

Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court ruled that his three hour trial on the assault charge will take place on 10th March next year. Sentencing on the damage charge has been adjourned until after the trial.