Man to stand trial next month for axe attack on Sheffield Pc Lisa Bates

The trial of Nathan Sumner is scheduled to take place from October 12 at Sheffield Crown Court and is due to last between six and eight days.

Sumner, aged 35, of Plowright Close, Gleadless Valley, is alleged to have carried out the attack on Pc Lisa Bates on Wednesday, April 13 this year.

He appeared via video link from HMP Wakefield at Sheffield Crown Court on Thursday morning, having been told at a previous hearing he is facing two counts - attempted murder and an alternative of Section 18 assault.

David Brooke, representing Sumner, said previous defence concerns about whether Sumner was fit to enter a plea was no longer an issue following further psychiatric tests on his client.

Members of Sumner's family were in the public gallery watching proceedings at the latest hearing.

Sumner was not asked to enter a plea to either charge he faces at this stage in proceedings.

The court heard PC Bates and her colleague she was with on the night in question are among the witnesses who will participate in the expected trial.

Judge Julian Goose QC told Sumner he would remain in custody until the start of his trial.

"Be ready to come to court that day," he told the defendant.

Sumner spoke only twice during the hearing, once to confirm his name and the second time to say 'Thank you' after Judge Goose had addressed him.