TWO men have appeared in court over an incident at Christchurch Railway Station on Saturday evening.

Nathan Brown, of Glentrammon Road, Kent, appeared at Bournemouth Magistrates’ Court accused of repeatedly striking Robert Plate in the face with a belt buckle.

The 21-year-old labourer, who was arrested at his home yesterday, is facing one charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Due to the seriousness of the charge, the case was sent to Bournemouth Crown Court where he is next due to appear on November 10. Brown was not asked to enter a plea.

Brown’s friend Oliver Smith, 24, also appeared in court and pleaded guilty to a public order offence.

The court heard Smith, of Sevenoaks Road, Kent, was seen urinating near the railway station.

Julian Lawrence, prosecuting, said this prompted a verbal altercation between the self-employed plumber and the Plate family, who were sitting in a car outside the station. The altercation resulted in Mr Plate getting out of the vehicle, which is when Brown is accused of assaulting the 56-year-old, Mr Lawrence said.

The magistrates were told Smith was not involved in the alleged attack.

Smith was handed a 12-month community discharge.