A WORCESTER man had his assault charge thrown out of court when a vital prosecution witness failed to show up.

Twenty-five-year-old David Parry, of Henwick Road, stood accused of assaulting Richard Newton on April 21.

At a hearing at Evesham Magistrates' Court yesterday, Parry denied the charge.

John Shenton, prosecuting, asked for an adjournment because Mr Newton was not there to give evidence,

But Parry's solicitor David Taylor objected, saying Mr Newton had failed to turn up on Friday, September 14 when the trial should have been held.

Magistrates yesterday agreed there should be no further delay.

Mr Shention said he was unable to offer any evidence and the case was dismissed.

But Parry did admit assaulting a police officer, racially aggravated criminal damage and using insulting words or behaviour.

His case was adjourned to Droitwich Magistrates' Court on Monday, October 22 when he is due to stand trial on an arson charge.