A MIDDLE-AGED Felixstowe man originally charged with attempting to murder his ex-wife has today admitted a lesser charge of assault.Peter Dow, 55, of Ferry Road, Orford, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court for a plea and directions hearing.

A MIDDLE-AGED Felixstowe man originally charged with attempting to murder his ex-wife has today admitted a lesser charge of assault.

Peter Dow, 55, of Ferry Road, Orford, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court for a plea and directions hearing.

The original charge of attempted murder was dropped in favour of assault causing actual bodily harm towards Jennifer Dow on April 4 this year.

Wearing a grey polo neck top and black jeans, Dow spoke only to confirm his name and plea guilty to the revised charge.

Prosecution lawyer Simon Spence, said: "Proving intent to kill is perhaps something the Crown would struggle to do. I offer no evidence in relation to the attempted murder charge."

Represented by barrister Lindsay Cox Dow sat motionless in the dock during the seven-minute hearing.

Ordering a pre-sentence report Judge John Devaux told the court he would need to hear the facts of the case before passing sentence.

He said: "The factual basis for sentence still has to be finalised. I will reserve the case to myself the next hearing should be possible during the week of July 26."

Both Dow and his ex-wife are expected to give evidence.

The court heard Dow has no previous convictions and he was released on conditional bail. Addressing Dow at the end of the hearing Judge Devaux added: "You have heard what's been said that's as far as we are going with your case today."