Ballymena Magistrates Court heard two separate assault cases on Thursday involving Co Antrim men.

Niall Bradley, 39, from Kilrea Road near Portglenone, faces an assault charge from March 27. His defence barrister stated the complainant provided a withdrawal statement. Prosecutors have not confirmed receipt of it. District Judge Nigel Broderick adjourned the case to May 21 for scheduling a contest, noting it could occur in June.

John Bryan Bowers from Glenarm Road appeared on charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing a blade as an offensive weapon, both from February 20 in Larne. He also faced bail breach accusations for not staying at a Lisburn address, missing a night curfew, and being in Larne on Wednesday.

Police reported a call about a stabbing at a Larne address around 8.50pm on February 20. An argument escalated to a physical altercation where Bowers allegedly threatened a Chelsea smile and slashed the man's right cheek with a blade, causing a three-inch cut needing 16 stitches at hospital.

Bowers told police the other man started a scuffle, denied causing injury or using a blade, and said he made no Chelsea smile reference. He claimed inability to read or write regarding apology texts that mentioned a paramilitary group. Police found a bicycle at the property and a cut-throat razor blade near a church after a report of an item thrown over a wall.

Police described Bowers as a managed violent offender. His defence barrister noted an ongoing drink problem. Police opposed bail. Judge Broderick refused it and adjourned to June 4.