A MAN accused of assault failed to turn up to his crown court hearing in Gloucester on Tuesday after falling off a ladder.

Judge Jamie Tabor QC was told that John Webb, 45, could not make it to court from his home in Bourne Lake Park, Cricklade, because he had injured his eye.

Though the court had received no sick note from Webb, Judge Tabor adjourned the case after hearing the prosecution was not ready to proceed with the case, which was committed to the court by North Gloucestershire magistrates.

"The co-defendant in this case, the defendant's wife, is to appear in Cheltenham on similar charges," said Mary Harley, prosecuting.

"We are asking for an adjournment until Tuesday."