A MAN has been refused bail by magistrates after being charged with a serious assault in Richmond on Saturday which has left the victim with his life hanging in the balance.

Cohnor James Coleman, 24, from Cookson Way, Brough with St Giles, near Catterick Garrison, was charged with a section 18 wounding with intent after the alleged assault outside the Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond on Saturday night.

Coleman appeared at Northallerton Magistrates Court today (Monday, April 27) for a bail hearing.

Magistrates opted to refuse bail for Coleman, who is due to appear at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, May 11 for a further hearing.

Following the alleged assault on Saturday, between 11.10pm and 11.25pm, a 38-year-old woman was also arrested in connection with the incident has been released on police bail.

The alleged victim remains in James Cook Hospital in a critical condition after suffering a serious head injury when he was assaulted near to the entrance to the theatre on Victoria Road.

Officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are urging witnesses to get in touch.

Detective Chief Inspector Allan Harder, of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Crime Unit, said: “We are still investigating the serious assault in Richmond on Saturday night and I am appealing for people with information to come forward.

“I would particularly like to hear from anyone who was in the area of Rosemary Lane, Victoria Road, and Queens Road between 11pm and 11.30pm on Saturday.”

Anyone who can help officers with their enquiries is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police’s Major Crime Unit on 101.

If you prefer not to give your name Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Please quote reference number 12150068230 when passing information about this incident.