SAINTS star Lee Barnard today made his first court appearance over an alleged assault in a Southampton nightclub.

The 26-year-old striker who lives in the city's Ocean Village spoke only to confirm his age and address during a five-minute hearing at Southampton Magistrates' Court.

He is facing a charge of causing actual bodily harm following an incident at the White House in Above Bar Street, Southampton, in the early hours of Sunday October 3 last year.

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Barnard's solicitor entered no plea for his client who appeared before the district judge dressed in a black suit, white shirt and grey tie. Barnard must now return to the same court on March 31.

Two other men have also appeared in court charged in relation to the White House disturbance.

Liam Shelton, 26, of Shakespeare Avenue, Billericay, pleaded not guilty to assault by battery. It is alleged he punched a bouncer during the melee in the bar.

David Jones, 31, of Rowan Gardens, Hedge End, pleaded guilty to obstructing a police officer. A further charge of threatening behaviour was dropped.

Jones, a builder, was fined £150 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge. The married father of one has also been banned from attending the White House for the next six months.