Mayor in court over attack

The Mayor of Lichfield appeared in court today and denied attacking a man in a city centre pub.

Councillor Michael Fryers pleaded not guilty to a charge of common assault following an incident at the Kings Head pub in Lichfield on July 14.

Fryers, dressed smartly in a dark suit, spoke to confirm his name, age and address when he appeared at Tamworth Magistrates Court this morning.

He was granted unconditional bail and will reappear at Tamworth Magistrates Court on October 23. Fryers, aged 60, and of William Lunns Homes, Stowe Street, Lichfield, is a councillor on both Lichfield City Council and Lichfield District Council.

Other councillors on both authorities have been told not to discuss the matter publicly.

Councillor Tony Thompson, conservative colleague of Mike Fryers and leader of the city council, has also issued his own warning for councillors to stay silent.

In recent weeks mayoral duties have been carried out by the city's deputy mayor.