A SUSPECT accused of a stabbing in Warrington town centre has made his first appearance in the crown court over the allegation.

Officers from Cheshire Police were called to the area of Horsemarket Street and Hill Street in Warrington at 7.15pm on Thursday, September 5.

It was reported that a man suffered a stab wound to his back following an ‘interaction’.

Quang Nguyem, of Capesthorne Road in Orford, was later charged in connection with the incident and appeared before Chester Magistrates’ Court that weekend.

The 21-year-old is charged with unlawful wounding, possessing a knife in a public place, threatening a person with a blade in a public place and possession of cannabis.

He was remanded in custody to appear before Liverpool Crown Court on Monday, via video link from HM Prison Altcourse and assisted by a Vietnamese interpreter

Nguyem confirmed his full name and date of birth, and that he was appearing in court without legal representation

The defendant was asked by judge Ian Harris if he wished to be represented legally, to which he stated that he did.

Judge Harris commented that the allegations he faced were ‘serious matters’ and agreed to adjourn the hearing for two weeks.

Following discussions with prosecutor Matthew Conway, a preliminary trial date was set for the week commencing February 10 next year.

Should the trial be needed, it is estimated to last for four days, but the defendant will appear back before the court for the rescheduled plea hearing on October 21, again via video link.

Before adjourning, Judge Harris said: “We have fixed a trial date for February 10 next year, but you will appear back here on October 21, where further matters will be discussed.

“You will need to get legal representation before then.”