A PENSIONER charged with assault following an alleged attack on a football supporter who bangs a drum during matches is to face a lesser charge.Edward Smith, 73, of Kings Close, Mildenhall, was initially charged with an allegation of causing actual bodily harm to David Ainslie, a Lowestoft Town supporter.

A PENSIONER charged with assault following an alleged attack on a football supporter who bangs a drum during matches is to face a lesser charge.

Edward Smith, 73, of Kings Close, Mildenhall, was initially charged with an allegation of causing actual bodily harm to David Ainslie, a Lowestoft Town supporter.

But prosecutors at St Edmundsbury Magistrates' Court yesterday put forward a lesser, alternative charge of common assault.

Smith, who was excused attendance at court, now faces a charge of assaulting Mr Ainslie by beating on August 24 during Lowestoft's 2:2 draw with Mildenhall Town.

No evidence was offered on the more serious charge and it was officially dismissed by magistrates.

Clare Lockwood, for Smith, pleaded not guilty to the latest charge on her client's behalf. He had pleaded not guilty to the assault causing actual bodily harm charge at an earlier hearing.

Magistrates adjourned the case until October 10 when a trial date is expected to be fixed. Smith's attendance at the hearing next month was excused and his unconditional bail was extended.

Mr Ainslie – known as Dave the Drummer among Lowestoft fans – is the talismanic leader of the club's fans. He has decided to quit drumming up support for his favourite football team and stay away from matches after the alleged assault.