Rugby fan accused of GBH

A LONDON court has heard how a rugby fan smashed a glass in a woman’s face at a West London pub while watching the British and Irish Lions play South Africa on TV.

Ben England, 27, from Hammersmith, was drinking with friends in the Wolfpack pub in Fulham on July 31, 2021, when Kim Graham took offence to something he said about the South African players throwing her drink in his face. The court heard how England responded by smashing his glass in Ms Graham’s face.

The defendant was appearing at Isleworth Crown Court wearing a navy suit and red tie, speaking only to confirm his name.

England is charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and racially aggravated inflicting of grievous bodily harm. Prosecutor

Malachy Pakenham, said that at the time of the assault England demonstrated hostility towards Ms Graham because she was, or he believed she was, South African.

He added: “They were not known to each other. They attended the pub in separate groups. He engaged in a conversation with the complainant about the rugby match between South Africa and the Lions.

“The conversation was initially friendly, but it then turned into an argument. She took offence in relation to a comment the defendant made in relation to the South African team.

“She threw a drink in his face. He then smashed a glass into the side of her face.”

England was bailed ahead of his next hearing.