Lennon assault accused appears in court

By Amanda MacMillan

A MAN accused of attacking Neil Lennon at a Hearts match appeared in court today (Tue).

John Wilson, 26, appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court charged with assaulting Lennon at Tynecastle in May.

Wilson, who appeared from custody, is charged lunging at Lennon and seizing him around the neck.

He is also accused of running onto the field of play during the Hearts versus Celtic game on 11 May.

It is claimed that he ran at the team dug out shouting and swearing and made a sectarian comment.

The breach of the peace charge alleges he caused alarm and annoyance to others. His behaviour is said to have caused further disturbance within the crowd at the match.

Both charges claim the assault was aggravated by religious prejudice.

Wilson, described as a prisoner at Edinburgh prison, denies both allegations.

Fiscal Depute Melanie Ward said: “All witnesses have been cited and are available apart from one police officer”.

Advocate David Nicholson appeared on behalf of Wilson and agreed that he was ready for trial.

Sheriff Alistair Noble said that the case will continue to trial on 29 August.

There was no application for bail.

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