United legend’s son denies pub assault
AMATEUR FOOTBALLER TO FACE TRIAL OVER INCIDENT
THE teenage son of United legend Paul Scholes has appeared in court accused of attacking a man in a pub.
Arron Scholes, 19, pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault by beating after an incident at an unnamed venue in the Uppermill area of Oldham in June, last year.
Mr Scholes, a striker for Royton Town, appeared at Tameside Magistrates’ Court, accompanied by his father Paul and mother Claire.
He spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth, then pleaded not guilty. He will face a trial at the same court in March.
Earlier in the hearing, prosecution lawyers outlined the allegations against the teenager.
Prosecutor Andrea Griffiths told the court: “I ask you to list this matter for trial.
“This matter involves an assault upon the complainant who was out drinking in the Uppermill area on 18 June, last year, so some time ago now.
“On that particular day, the complainant was assaulted by being repeatedly punched.”
She added: “We are awaiting CCTV from the police.”
Mr Scholes, who lives in the village of Grasscroft, appeared in the dock wearing a black suit with black jacket, pale blue shirt and a darker blue tie.
Defence solicitor Catherine Gaynor told the hearing: “There will be a number of defence witnesses, namely three. The trial will last for a day and has the potential of going on to two days.”
Chair of the bench Gillian Pearson told the defendant: “Mr Scholes, you have pleaded not guilty and this case is going to trial on 18th March back at this court, and you will need to be here for 9.30am.
“Until that time, unconditional bail is granted to you.
“Should you fail to attend, the trial may go ahead in your absence.”
In September last year, Paul Scholes turned out for his son’s club for a league match against Stockport Georgians when Royton were desperate for players due to a series of injuries.