TWO brothers have appeared in court in connection with an alleged disturbance at a Southbourne pub.

Alan Stanley Watson, aged 59, of Woodland Way, Highcliffe, and his younger brother 34-year-old Shane Alan William Watson, of Hurst Close, Christchurch, appeared before Poole Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning.

Alan Watson is charged with ABH, that on March 21, this year, at The Grove Tavern, Southbourne Grove, Bournemouth, he assaulted Natasha Greenhill, thereby occasioning her actual bodily harm.

He is also charged with the more serious offence of wounding with intent - that on the same occasion at the same place, he attempted to unlawfully and maliciously wound Oliver Phillips.

Meanwhile, his younger brother, Shane Watson, is charged with ABH on Miss Greenhill.

Shane Watson is also charged with an affray, that on the same evening he used or threatened unlawful violence towards other persons and his conduct was such as would cause a person of reasonable firmness present at the scene to fear for his personal safety.

Both brothers deny all charges.

Prosecuting, Richard Oakley told the court: “This relates to an incident that occurred at the Grove Tavern in Southbourne on the evening of March 22.

“It is alleged the two defendants caused a disturbance at the public house, and Mr Alan Watson is alleged to have attempted to unlawfully wound someone in the public house.”

The pair were given unconditional bail and ordered to appear at Bournemouth Crown Court on January 10 for their next hearing.

Their trial will take place at the crown court.