SEVEN suspects in the alleged acid attack on a three-year-old boy in Worcester – including the child's father – will appear at the city's crown court early in the New Year.

The case against the seven, each accused of playing a role in the sulphuric acid attack on a three-year-old boy at Home Bargains in Worcester, was due to be heard again yesterday (Wednesday) at Worcester Crown Court for a pre-trial review after it had been placed in a 'warned list'.

However, the case has now been fixed for a further hearing on January 2 next year instead.

A note on the court list says all defendants are required to attend this hearing.

The defendants have all denied conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

Those accused of being involved include the boy's 39-year-old father who cannot be identified for legal reasons.

The remaining six defendants are: Adam Cech, 27, of Birmingham; Jan Dudi, 25, of Handsworth, Birmingham; Norbert Pulko, 22, of London; Afghan national Jabar Paktia, 41, of New Hampton Road, Wolverhampton; Saied Hussini, 41, of London; and Martina Badiova, 22, of Newcombe Road, Birmingham.

The particulars of the offence are that between July 12 and July 18 this year they conspired together with others unknown to cause the injuries to a minor.

The alleged acid attack on a three-year-old boy happened at 2.15pm on Saturday, July 21, at Home Bargains on Shrub Hill Retail Park, Tallow Hill, Worcester.