GBH accused 'used glass bottle in Swindon town centre attack'

Lee Milne is accused of using a broken bottle to “prod” his victim three times in the neck in the incident on The Parade on Sunday afternoon (July 24), around 3pm.

Swindon Magistrates’ Court heard on Monday afternoon that the 30-year-old was involved in an “altercation” with the complainant initially, where he is said to have made comments about his wife before the victim punched him twice.

Lee Milne. Photo: Facebook.

Prosecutor Keith Ballinger told the court that the complainant, who had initially left the scene, realised his necklace was missing and returned to the area outside Costa Coffee to search for it.

But on returning, Mr Ballinger said: “He hears someone shout ‘come on then’, and the defendant approaches him.

“He’s got a broken bottle in his hand and prods it in his neck on at least three occasions.”

It left him with a gash.

The scene on The Parade on Sunday afternoon.

Wiltshire Police confirmed the victim was taken to hospital for his injuries, where, as of Monday morning, he remained in a stable condition.

Milne, of Whitehead Street, did not enter pleas to wounding with intent, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place or possession of cannabis.

The case has been adjourned and sent to Swindon Crown Court, where Milne is expected to enter a plea on August 26.

As he was remanded into custody, Milne’s solicitor Gordon Hotson said he would let his mother know.

Forensic officers at the scene on Sunday afternoon.

“Anyone touches her, when I get out I’ll f****** kill him,” the defendant said loudly, making noises and hand gestures as he left the dock, flanked by one security guard.

District Judge Joanna Dickens said in open court she decided not to hold him in contempt because he had been remanded into custody and there was “very little” she could do.

“I’m not having somebody talking to me in a court [like that]. If anyone makes a comment like that [they] would be in serious contempt of court.”